An Example of “Old Wine in New Bottles” – Applying Ultrasound to Swallowing Disorder Management
Cover Story
Swallowing disorder is not uncommon in the general population, especially in older adults. It is associated with life-threatening complications and would negatively impact the quality of life of patients and their family members. Traditionally, examination of the swallowing structures and functions involves X-ray or endoscopy. Both techniques are not only invasive to patients, but also limited in availability and accessibility. The research “Application of Ultrasound Imaging to Swallowing Disorders Management” sets out to develop an imaging technique that allows speech therapists to non-invasively, handily and accurately examine patients’ swallowing condition.
|
It is hoped that the research will result in a paradigm shift in the imaging of swallowing structures and function. In turn, it will benefit patients with swallowing disorders and their loved ones, revamp the mode of delivery of swallowing disorder management and reduce medical and society burden caused by swallowing disorders.
|
As of 2023, a preliminary ultrasound examination protocol for swallowing has been developed and disseminated. A two-day workshop was held as part of the Commissioned Training Program for 130+ Speech Therapists from the Hospital Authority in November 2022. Another workshop was conducted for Speech Therapists from the Elderly Services, Tung Wah Group of Hospitals in June 2023. More training and/or sharing sessions are upcoming to allow knowledge transfer to the clinical community of swallowing disorder management.
Ultrasound Workshop for Speech Therapists from Elderly Services of Tung Wah Group of Hospitals in June 2023
Starting from July 2023, the research team reaches out to the setting of primary healthcare. In partnership with the Jockey Club Cadenza Hub, the team has been conducting ultrasound swallowing examinations on 100+ adults who age 50 years or above. Leveraging the strength of ultrasound in detecting muscle problems, it is hoped that people who are at risk of swallowing problems due to sarcopenia (i.e. muscle wasting) could be identified and treated early.
(Left) Scanning of swallowing structures and functions using ultrasound
(Right) The research team sharing their insights on “Sarcopenia, Swallowing Disorders and Ultrasound Examination” to the general public in Jockey Club Cadenza Hub in July 2023.
Click HERE to watch a video illustrating how ultrasound swallowing imaging is done.
