Swallowing complaints and cineradiographic abnormalities of the pharynx.

Abstract

In a retrospective study, a comparison was made between a classification of symptoms and cineradiographic findings to clarify the relevance of roentgenologic findings and thus evaluate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in patients with swallowing disorders. Of 188 patients with swallowing complaints who underwent cineradiography, a total of 152 cases were included in the study at follow-up after 4 years. Their symptoms were classified into three groups: (A) a sensation of obstruction during meals, (B) abnormal sensation felt when eating, or (C) a sensation felt when not eating (globus). In group A, 85% (34/40) had roentgenologic pharyngeal abnormalities, compared to 68% (34/50) in group B and 63% (39/62) in group C. Among the various cineradiographic findings, web and cricopharyngeal incoordination were significantly associated with obstructive symptoms. The cineradiographic findings showed good agreement with the results of endoscopic examinations.