How to Perform a Supraglottic Swallow

How to Perform a Supraglottic Swallow

A supraglottic swallow is a technique used to help someone who has problems with swallowing (dysphagia)

Swallowing problems can be a result of certain medical treatments and conditions, such as after a stroke or head and neck cancer.

This technique is for people who have problems protecting their airway when swallowing. During swallowing, food and liquids should go into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach.

The supraglottic swallow helps to close the vocal cords during swallowing, which keeps food and liquids from going into the windpipe (trachea).

This technique can be used with each swallow, as needed.

One swallowing maneuver that is often used to compensate for timing delays is called the Supraglottic Swallow.

This technique was first introduced by Dr. Jerilyn Logemann in the 1980’s and is described in her book, “Evaluation and Treatment Swallowing Disorders.”

When we swallow, there are a series of valves that need to open and close at the proper time to allow for safe and efficient swallowing.

Two anatomical valves important for protecting the larynx (voice box) are the 1) epiglottis and 2) vocal folds.

The Supraglottic Swallow aims to close the vocal folds and the supraglottic structures (the petiole of the epiglottis approximating the arytenoids) to protect the upper airway well in advance of the bolus arriving.

What are the risks?

If done correctly, the supraglottic swallow technique is considered safe. However, it may cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

The heartbeat usually goes back to normal once the technique is complete. If you have a heart condition or heart disease, talk with your health care provider before using this technique.

How to perform a supraglottic swallow

  1. Take a bite of food or a sip of liquid and hold it in your mouth.
  2. Take a breath through your nose.
  3. Hold your breath.
  4. Swallow the food or liquid while holding your breath.
  5. Exhale with a cough.
  6. Breathe normally.
  7. Repeat this technique with each swallow, as needed.

General recommendations and tips

  • It is important to cough right after you swallow, before you inhale again.
  • A supraglottic swallow involves using multiple steps. Therefore, it may not be the right technique for someone with learning or memory problems.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Use the supraglottic swallow technique when eating or drinking as told by your health care provider.
  • Follow instructions from your health care provider about eating or drinking restrictions.
  • Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Summary

  • A supraglottic swallow is a technique used to help someone who has problems swallowing (dysphagia).
  • This technique helps to close the vocal cords during swallowing, which keeps food and liquids from going into the windpipe (trachea).
  • If done correctly, the supraglottic swallow technique is considered safe. However, if you have a heart condition or heart disease, talk with your health care provider before using this technique.
  • A supraglottic swallow requires multiple steps. Therefore, it may not be the right technique for someone who has learning or memory problems.
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