Local videofluoroscopy service proves easy to swallow for South West dysphagia patients

In a significant boost for South West residents living with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), a videofluoroscopy service is now available through Bunbury Hospital’s Speech Pathology department.

Videofluoroscopy, also known as a modified barium swallow study, is a moving X-ray used to assess a patient’s swallowing function. It provides a dynamic, real-time view of the swallowing process, which enables trained Speech Pathologists to make precise diagnoses about acute and chronic swallowing difficulties. 

Using this important diagnostic tool, a Speech Pathologist is able to identify risks for aspiration or choking and design effective meal modifications that includes fluid and diet texture modifications, as well as being able to consider rehabilitation alternatives to help strengthen the patient’s ability to swallow.

With between 15 and 30 per cent of people aged 65 and over living with some form of swallowing difficulty, this marks an important boost to local capacity for South West residents.

Acting Senior Speech Pathologist Emily Jackson recently underwent specialist training with assistance from Senior Speech Pathologist Jessica Clews.

In order to support local Speech Pathologists to manage dysphagia cases closer to home, Emily has also commenced upskilling her colleagues to ensure that this specialised service can continue to be provided locally. 

Videofluoroscopy is now available to South West residents including hospital inpatients, outpatients, nursing home residents and NDIS participants. Referrals can be made by general practitioners or the managing medical team.

For more information about the videofluoroscopy service at Bunbury Hospital Speech call 9722 1331 or email WACHS-SW.BYAcuteSpeechPathology@health.wa.gov.au.