Abstract
The normal process of swallowing is an extremely complicated and highly integrated process, only part of which is under voluntary control. The normal process of swallowing requires that the neuromuscular structure, the cartilaginous and bony elements and their innervation will be intact. A number of high technology and semitechnology procedures have been developed which will help elucidate the cause of the swallowing problem. These include: videofluoroscopy, scintigraphy, manometry, fiberoptic endoscopy, ultra-sound, and clinical auscultation. A deglutition team consisting of otolaryn-gologist, neurologist, speech-language pathologist, radiologist, nurse practitioner, and dietitian can have a major impact on determining the cause of the swallowing dificulty and correcting it.
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