Association of Post-Extubation Dysphagia with Tongue Weakness and Somatosensory Disturbance in Non-Neurologic Critically Ill Patients
This study examined nineteen critically ill adult patients post endotracheal intubation who underwent a videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Evaluation of tongue and lip performance, and oral somatosensory function were also performed. The investigators found the duration of intubation, length of stay in the intensive care unit, and oromotor degradation were associated with dysphagia. They concluded that an oral performance evaluation may be helpful in identifying patients who might experience post-extubation dysphagia.
