Prior to your appointment

Once we receive the referral, an information sheet explaining what happens at the clinic (see below) and a questionnaire for the patient to complete and bring to the clinic are sent out in the post with the appointment letter.

What is a Videofluoroscopy?

A videofluoroscopy is simply a video x-ray of your swallow. It allows us to see what happens when you swallow food and drink, so that we may advise on the best way of managing any problems you may be having. It is not painful or uncomfortable and is not invasive in any way. Please be assured, no tubes will be put down your throat. The whole process is normally completed within 15 minutes

Do I have to lie down?

No. If you are able, you will be asked to stand on a platform and to remain as still as possible whilst the doctor lines you up with the camera. There are handles available if required. If you need to remain seated in the wheel chair, this can be arranged.

What will happen?

So we can see which consistencies are easiest for you, you will be given a drink of barium (a contrast which shows up on x-ray), some yoghurt, some mashed banana and a piece of bread and butter. However if there are certain things you know to be difficult, please bring these with you. In order to get the best picture of how you manage these, it is vital certain instructions are followed. These are explained below:

Drink:

• Please take a large sip and HOLD the fluid in your mouth until instructed to swallow
• The radiographer will then count to 3; he will say “1,2,3, SWALLOW” and at this point, please swallow the liquid in your usual manner, trying not to move your head any more than necessary
• Please keep swallowing until you feel it has all gone

Yoghurt:

• Please HOLD the yoghurt in your mouth until instructed to swallow
• The radiographer will again say “1,2,3, SWALLOW”, at which point please swallow the yoghurt in your usual manner, trying not to move your head any more than necessary
• Please keep swallowing until you feel it has all gone

Mashed banana \ bread and butter:

• Please chew the food for as long as you need to – but DO NOT SWALLOW it
• When you are ready to swallow, wave your hand at the radiographer
• The radiographer will again say “1,2,3, SWALLOW”, at which point please swallow the food in your usual manner
• Please keep swallowing until you feel it has all gone.

What will happen afterwards?

During the procedure you may hear the Radiologist and Speech and Language Therapist discussing the swallow as it happens. This is normal and is nothing to be concerned about. After the clinic the Speech and Language Therapist will review the x-ray again and will write a detailed report which will be sent to the person who referred you who will then normally see you for a follow up appointment. A copy of the report will also be sent to your GP and to you and will include any recommendations or strategies that may help you.

Please feel free to ask at the clinic if you have any questions or concerns.