Modified Barium Swallow
General Information:
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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.
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Discomfort - Minimal. The contrast is unpleasant to swallow to some.
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Duration - About 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on findings.
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Results - Within 1-2 days.
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Risks of Procedure - Exposure to radiation, particularly during pregnancy.
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Average Cost - $
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Other Names - Video swallow or cookie swallow.
Indication for the Test
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To examine the swallowing mechanism in persons who are having problems swallowing.
Preparation
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Nothing by mouth for several hours before the test.
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You wear a hospital gown.
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You are placed on an x-ray table.
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A video monitor attached to an x-ray machine is used to take pictures and videos as you swallow various foods.
Procedure
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While on the x-ray table, you swallow barium of varying consistencies (thin liquid, thick liquid, paste, and barium-coated cookie/marshmallow/pill).
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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.
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With a speech pathologist present, techniques to aid in improving the swallowing problem can be identified.
After the Procedure
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Patient is free to leave and resume normal activities.
Factors affecting results
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Movement affects the quality of the images obtained.
Advantages
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The test can identify the cause of the swallowing problem and, in some cases, identify techniques to improve swallowing.
Disadvantages
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Detailed images of the damaged organs are not obtained.
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There is a small amount of radiation exposure.
- Some diseases that can cause swallowing problems can be missed if they occur in the mid or lower esophagus.
