The role of the ENT specialist in evaluating dysphagia

The article highlights the critical role of the otorhinolaryngologist (ENT) in diagnosing oropharyngeal dysphagia, a swallowing disorder that is a common and serious complication following stroke, cardiac surgery, and prolonged mechanical ventilation.

The aim of the study was to investigate diagnostic options and evaluate their impact on the rehabilitation outcomes of patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia.

Dysphagia significantly increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, and prolongs hospital stays.The primary focus is on Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) as a key instrumental diagnostic method. Compared to Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS), FEES offers several advantages: it is performed at the bedside, involves no radiation exposure, and allows for direct visualization of the pharyngeal and laryngeal structures. The authors emphasize that the ENT specialist, proficient in FEES, plays a leading role in assessing swallowing function, identifying penetration and aspiration, and selecting a safe food consistency for the patient.

The conclusion underscores the necessity of using standardized scales (such as FEDSS and the Rosenbek scale) for an objective assessment of dysphagia severity and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, speech therapists, and rehabilitation specialists to develop effective patient management and rehabilitation strategies