A video fluoroscopy is a clinical examination to determine the cause and severity of a swallowing problem.
In a normal swallow, when you swallow, a flap called the epiglottis moves to block the entrance of food particles into your larynx and lungs. The muscles of the larynx pull upward to assist with this movement. They also tightly close during swallowing, which prevents food from entering your lungs. The food then goes down the oesophagus into the stomach.
In an abnormal swallow, the epiglottis does not close properly, which a allows food or drink to enter your lungs.
More details can be found on our page ‘What are the full details of the swallowing process?’ and ‘What happens when food gets into the lungs?’.
The video fluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS), also known as Modified Barium Swallow (MBS), is a dynamic fluoroscopic evaluation of swallowing where patients are imaged whilst ingesting a range of food and fluid consistencies to determine swallowing function and underlying pathophysiology.
The YouTube link below gives a video that shows how a test is carried out.
The video fluoroscopy helps the healthcare professional determine the underlying cause of dysphagia and therefore the best form of treatment(s).
Treatment options for dysphagia may include swallowing exercises, changes to diet and food, medications, or surgical interventions.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has aspirated food or liquid– i.e. that it has got into the lungs, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. A healthcare professional can assess the situation, provide appropriate treatment, and help prevent potential complications.