General Information:
Description: A video is taken as contrast is swallowed. The video can then be played back at a slower speed to detect minor abnormalities in the swallowing mechanism. An Otolaryngologist or Radiologist and speech therapist perform the test at an x-ray facility. The doctor then interprets the results. The test takes 1 hour to perform.
Discomfort - Minimal. The contrast is unpleasant to swallow to some.
Duration - About 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on findings.
Results - Within 1-2 days.
Risks of Procedure - Exposure to radiation, particularly during pregnancy.
Average Cost - $
Other Names - Video swallow or cookie swallow. [Back to Top]
Indication for the Test
To examine the swallowing mechanism in persons who are having problems swallowing. [Back to Top]
Preparation
Nothing by mouth for several hours before the test.
You wear a hospital gown.
You are placed on an x-ray table.
A video monitor attached to an x-ray machine is used to take pictures and videos as you swallow various foods. [Back to Top]
Procedure
While on the x-ray table, you swallow barium of varying consistencies (thin liquid, thick liquid, paste, and barium-coated cookie/marshmallow/pill).
By varying the amounts and consistency of the contrast material that is swallowed, the doctor is able to identify the cause of the swallowing problem.
With a speech pathologist present, techniques to aid in improving the swallowing problem can be identified. [Back to Top]
After the Procedure
Patient is free to leave and resume normal activities. [Back to Top]
Factors affecting results
Movement affects the quality of the images obtained. [Back to Top]
Advantages
The test can identify the cause of the swallowing problem and, in some cases, identify techniques to improve swallowing. [Back to Top]
Disadvantages
Detailed images of the damaged organs are not obtained.
There is a small amount of radiation exposure.
Gastro One • 2020 Exeter Road • Germantown, TN 38138 • P: 901.682.1233• F: 901.682.0044