Acoustic Signs of Swallowing Physiology

Abstract

Objective: To determine the acoustic characteristics of the swallowing process for therapeutic use of its sequentiality. Introduction: Conceiving swallowing as a systemic process that occurs within a closed canal and involves the transport of food material, it can be understood that the sounds emanated determine a sequentiality that favors and provides evaluative and diagnostic guidelines. Method: A descriptive study is proposed, adopting the Induction-Deduction research method; the particularity of each case is used as a starting point to arrive at general knowledge, which allows the formation of hypotheses. In turn, digital cervical auscultation is used as an acoustic capture strategy. Results: Analyses of swallowing sounds were performed on subjects without alterations, subjects with motor disabilities, and subjects with mild brain injuries. The Littman 3200 was placed at positioning point 11 on the neck. Analysis: While instrumental methods for the assessment of dysphagia are accurate and objective, cervical auscultation, despite its subjectivity, is a useful complementary technique in the clinical examination of these patients, even more so considering the contextual characteristics of the Colombian healthcare system. Conclusions: It is necessary to articulate processes that support swallowing characteristics, determine evaluative systems tailored to needs, and implement practical guidelines based on research studies that promote and position speech therapy.