A comparison of swallowing in three subjects using an interactive image processing system

Abstract

Using an interactive computer imaging processing system, three male subjects' liquid swallows are compared. The subjects are a 32-year-old diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, a 24-year-old normal and a 71-year-old normal. This study examines aspects of tongue and hyoid bone movement and upper esophageal sphincter opening during swallowing. Trajectories and ranges of motion are compared within and across the three subjects. A novel technique to facilitate simultaneous lingual and bolus tracking during videofluoroscopic recording of swallowing is reported.<>