Objective distance measurements from videofluorographic swallow studies using computer interactive analysis: technical note.

Application of new technologies to study swallowing and its disorders will facilitate better understanding of both normal and disordered swallowing. Recent application of computer-assisted analysis of video-fluorographic swallow tapes has enhanced objective measurement of distance as well as timing characteristics of swallowing. Application of these systems requires consideration of system capability, calibration for distance measures, nature of measurements, and potential clinical/research benefits. This report describes a commercially available computer-interactive system for analyzing video images, discusses calibration procedures, and demonstrates practical applications using defined measures.