Validation of the pharyngeal squeeze maneuver

Abstract

The pharyngeal squeeze maneuver (PSM) is a surrogate measure of pharyngeal strength on endoscopy. The validity of this measure has not been reported. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the validity of the PSM. Case series with planned data collection. Simultaneous endoscopic and fluoroscopic swallow evaluations were performed on a cohort of individuals with dysphagia. The PSM was compared to a validated measure of pharyngeal strength, the pharyngeal constriction ratio (PCR). An elevated PCR indicates a weakened pharynx. The mean PCR for subjects with an intact PSM was 0.06 (+/- 0.08), compared to a mean PCR of 0.31 (+/- 0.20) for individuals with an absent PSM. The PCR was significantly higher, indicating a weaker pharynx, in persons with an absent PSM (P < 0.001). The PCR is elevated in persons with a diminished pharyngeal squeeze. These data suggest the pharyngeal squeeze maneuver is a valid surrogate measure of pharyngeal motor integrity.