Biomechanical quantification for assessment and diagnosis of dysphagia.

The swallowing process is divided into three distinct phases: (1) an oral phase involving the coordinated action of the muscles of the lips, tongue, and cheeks; (2) a pharyngeal phase involving pharynx and larynx; and (3) an esophageal phase involving transit of the bolus from the pharynx into the stomach. A description is given of quantitative measurement techniques for assessment of the oral phase and reliable, noninvasive techniques for assessing the pharyngeal phase that are being developed. The goal is to identify the patient at risk of aspiration and choking.