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Oropharyngeal dysphagia

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Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Opinion statement

  • Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) develops when a large number of local and systemic causes lead to abnormal oropharyngeal bolus transport and/or compromise of airway safety.

  • Only a minority of cases of OPD are amenable to curative therapy.

  • Rehabilitation of swallowing function is the cornerstone of therapy for the overwhelming majority of patients.

  • Optimal management of oropharyngeal dysphagia requires a multidisciplinary approach involving a gastroenterologist, swallow/therapist, ENT physician, and rehabilitation and nutrition professionals, along with the support of family members.

  • Therapy of OPD is directed at improvement of oropharyngeal bolus transport, ensuring adequate airway safety, and enhancing overall quality of life.

  • A better understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of OPD has resulted in more efficacious therapy. However, given the large social and economic impact of OPD, continuing research is needed for development of better diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, 9200 W. Wisconsin Ave., 53226, Milwaukee, WI, USA

    Reza Shaker MD

Authors
  1. Kia Saeian MD
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  2. Reza Shaker MD
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Saeian, K., Shaker, R. Oropharyngeal dysphagia. Curr Treat Options Gastro 3, 77–87 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-000-0064-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-000-0064-1

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