Surgical Treatment of Dysphagia
The role of surgery in the management of dysphagia is clear in some areas and controversial in others. Evaluation for the causes of dysphagia can elucidate conditions in which surgery…
Genetics of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) was first described by Charcot in 1869 as what we would now call a sporadic disease—a disease believed to occur without a strong genetic influence. Only…
Glial Cells in ALS: The Missing Link?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) was initially known as Charcot’s sclerosis, named after the French neurobiologist and physician Jean-Martin Charcot who first described this type of muscular atrophy in the early…
Dysphagia Rehabilitation in Japan
This article describes the features of Japanese dysphagia rehabilitation, particularly where it differs from that in the United States. Many kinds of professionals participate in dysphagia rehabilitation; nurses and dental…
Rehabilitation of Dysphagia Following Head and Neck Cancer
Patients who have cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, or larynx may be treated with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these modalities. Each treatment type may have a…
Dysphagia in the Elderly
The capacity to swallow or eat is a basic human need and can be a great pleasure. Older adults look forward to sharing mealtimes and participating in social interactions. The…
Dysphagia in Stroke and Neurologic Disease
Dysphagia is a common problem in neurologic disease. The authors describe rates of dysphagia in selected neurologic diseases, and the evaluation and treatment of dysphagia in this population. Applicable physiology…
The Videofluorographic Swallowing Study
This article describes the evidence for the physiologic foundation and interpretation of the videofluorographic swallowing study (VFSS). The purpose and clinical efficacy of VFSS are explained. Standardization of the VFSS…
Pediatric Dysphagia
Feeding and swallowing disorders during childhood are on the increase and typically occur in conjunction with multiple and complex medical, health, and developmental conditions. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for…
Treatment of Oral and Pharyngeal Dysphagia
Research on treatment of oropharyngeal dysphagia has supported several treatment approaches. Treatment can include postural changes, heightening preswallow sensory input, voluntary swallow maneuvers, and exercises. Evidence to support the efficacy…
