A swallow study, or dysphagia evaluation, is a specialized assessment used to identify and analyze difficulties with swallowing food or liquids. The primary goal is to pinpoint where the breakdown in the swallowing process is occurring and determine the safest way for an individual to consume nutrition. Understanding the time commitment is a common concern for patients. Although the actual testing time is brief, the total visit covers several necessary steps that contribute to the overall duration.
The Two Primary Types of Swallow Studies
The evaluation is typically performed using specialized instrumental assessments, primarily the Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) and the Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). These two studies utilize different technologies to capture the mechanics of the swallow. The MBSS is an X-ray procedure that uses fluoroscopy to capture real-time video images as the person swallows various consistencies of food and liquid coated with barium.
The FEES procedure uses a thin, flexible endoscope with a light and a camera. A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) passes this scope through the patient’s nose to position the camera above the voice box, allowing direct visualization of the throat structures. The patient then swallows different foods and liquids, often dyed with food coloring. The choice between these two methods depends on the patient’s specific symptoms and medical history.
Duration of the Procedure Itself
The active testing phase of a swallow study is short, regardless of the method used. For a Modified Barium Swallow Study, the actual time the X-ray equipment is actively recording (fluoroscopy time) is often between 5 and 15 minutes. This brief capture time is designed to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation while still collecting comprehensive diagnostic data.
The active insertion and testing phase for a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing is similarly concise. Once the endoscope is positioned, the scope-in-place portion of the procedure generally lasts between 10 and 25 minutes. During this time, the SLP captures necessary information to evaluate airway protection mechanisms and the efficiency of the throat muscles.
Total Appointment Time and Preparation
The total time a patient should plan for a swallow study appointment is significantly longer than the active testing time, often ranging from 45 to 90 minutes. This extended period accounts for necessary steps before and after the procedure. Upon arrival, an administrative phase involving check-in and registration requires a buffer of time.
The preparation phase begins with a detailed clinical interview with the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to discuss symptoms and medical history. For a FEES, the SLP may apply a topical anesthetic spray to the nose to minimize discomfort during endoscope insertion. For an MBSS, positioning the patient and preparing the barium-coated foods in various consistencies also adds to the duration.
Following the instrumental test, the post-procedure consultation is the most substantial portion of the added time. The SLP analyzes the captured video and then meets with the patient to discuss the preliminary findings. This discussion includes initial recommendations for safe eating and drinking, such as diet modifications or specific swallowing strategies. This direct feedback session ensures the patient leaves with an immediate plan.
Timeline for Receiving Results
A benefit of the swallow study is the immediate preliminary feedback provided by the Speech-Language Pathologist. Before discharge, the SLP discusses initial observations and provides verbal instructions regarding immediate changes to diet or swallowing techniques. This allows the patient to implement safety measures right away.
However, the final, formal written report requires additional time to complete, as it includes a detailed analysis and official recommendations. This comprehensive document is typically finalized and sent to the referring physician within 24 to 72 business hours after the appointment. Patients can expect to receive their official results and long-term care plan from their referring physician after this report has been reviewed.