x-ray assessment of swallowing function (modified barium swallows)

A modified barium swallow is a special ‘moving’ x-ray that shows how the muscles in your mouth and throat work during eating, drinking and swallowing. It helps to determine the cause of the swallowing difficulties. The results of this study help to guide swallowing therapy and/or medical intervention.

why is a modified barium swallow performed?

A modified barium swallow is recommended when there is concern about

• how well you swallow
• how well the airway is protected during swallowing; and
• how well food moves from the mouth to the stomach

A modified barium swallow may be considered if some of the following symptoms occur regularly:

• frequent choking,
• coughing or gagging during meals,
• trouble managing saliva,
• gurgly breathing,
• chronic breathing problems,
• ability to eat a limited range of foods,
• difficulty swallowing.

Modified Barium Swallow assessments are performed in conjuction with radiologists at QDI Indooroopilly.