ESSD–ESGAR best practice position statements on the technical performance of videofluoroscopic swallowing studies in adult patients with swallowing disorders

European Radiology, vol. 35, pp. 3169–3180

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS) remain the gold standard for the instrumental assessment of oropharyngeal swallowing disorders alongside flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), requiring a high standard of quality and correct implementation. The current best practice position statements aim to guide the clinical practice of VFSS in individuals experiencing swallowing disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An international expert consensus panel with expertise in oropharyngeal dysphagia, comprised of radiologists, speech-language therapists, otolaryngologists, and other professionals in the field, convened by the European Society of Swallowing Disorders (ESSD) and the European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology (ESGAR), developed best practice position statements. They were established using an online Delphi methodology involving an online panel discussion and item preparation and three consecutive rounds. Consensus was reached when ≥ 80% of the participants agreed on a specific recommendation. RESULTS: Eighteen best practice position statements were formulated, thereby establishing standard recommendations on the technical performance of VFSS. They cover VFSS planning, correct implementation, documentation, radiation protection, equipment and maintenance, and education and training. CONCLUSION: These position statements summarise the panel's deliberations and recommendations in performing VFSS, representing the agreed consensus of experts from ESSD and ESGAR. They provide a structured framework for optimising and standardising the performance of VFSS in patients with swallowing disorders. KEY POINTS: Question Significant regional and national differences in clinical practice when performing VFSS highlight the need for interdisciplinary recommendations to optimise patient care. Findings Eighteen statements were developed by representatives of the ESSD and the ESGAR. Clinical relevance These best practice position statements on the technical performance of VFSS may serve as a basis for standardising the procedure and ensuring high-quality service.

Authors 12

1. Martina Scharitzer corresponding

   Medical University of Vienna

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. martina.scharitzer@meduniwien.ac.at

   Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria

2. Wolfgang Schima

   Barmherzige Schwestern Krankenhaus Wien · St. Josef-Krankenhaus Wien · Göttlicher Heiland Krankenhaus Wien

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Barmherzige Schwestern Krankenhaus, Vienna, Austria

   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Goettlicher Heiland Krankenhaus, Vienna, Austria

   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Sankt Josef Krankenhaus, Vienna, Austria

3. Margaret Walshe

   Trinity College Dublin

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Clinical Speech and Language Studies, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

4. Éric Vérin

   Université de Rouen Normandie

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Pulmonary Rehabilitation, UNIROUEN, Normandie University, Rouen, France

5. Stefano Doratiotto

   Ca' Foncello Hospital

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Ca' Foncello Hospital, Treviso, Italy

6. Olle Ekberg

   Lund University · Skåne University Hospital

   Affiliation as printed

   Division of Medical Radiology, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden

7. Daniele Farneti

   Ospedale Infermi di Rimini

   Affiliation as printed

   Audiologic Phoniatric Service, ENT Department AUSL Romagna, Infermi Hospital, Rimini, Italy

8. Peter Pokieser

   Medical University of Vienna

   Affiliation as printed

   Teaching Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria

9. Emilio Quaia

   University of Padua · Azienda Ospedale - Università Padova

   Affiliation as printed

   Radiology Department, Padova University Hospital, University of Padova, Padova, Italy

10. Virginie Woisard

    Hôpital Larrey

    Affiliation as printed

    Voice and Deglutition Unit, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Larrey Hospital, University Hospital of Toulouse, Toulouse, France

11. Ekaterini Xinou

    Theageneio General Hospital

    Affiliation as printed

    Radiology Department, Theagenio Cancer Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece

12. Renée Speyer Aachen Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery

    Leiden University · University of Oslo · Curtin University · Leiden University Medical Center

    Affiliation as printed

    Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia

    Department Special Needs Education, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway

    Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands

    MILO Foundation, Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Schijndel, The Netherlands