Impact of combined visual-sensory feedback on deglutition parameters in healthy individuals

Introduction Biofeedback is one oft he possible methods to support deglutition therapy. In this procedure are applied visual and acoustic methods. Deglutition is automatically identified and evaluated, the movement of the larynx is displayed and movement targets are determined (height, width). The feasibility and significance of an additional electrical stimulus at the anterior floor of the mouth will be tested in a study.

Method In healthy volunteers, differences in the speed and extent of laryngeal elevation should be tested while swallowing saliva with and without visual support, with sensory and combined visual and sensory stimulation. The study uses RehaIngest^® (Hasomed, Magdeburg), an automated measurement system for swallowing with visual feedback. The system can be used in combination with electrical stimulation (RehaMove3^®, Hasomed, Magdeburg), so that at the beginning of a deglutition, an electrical impulse of 5 mA for 0.5 seconds at the front of the mouth triggers a sensory response.

Results 20 healthy volunteers were examined. Both visual representation and sensory stimulation were conducted in a timely manner and altered swallowing. The visual stimuli increased the speed and decreased the extension of laryngeal elevation, while an additional sensory stimulus decreased the speed and increased the elevation. In general, the sensory stimulus was described as pleasant and swallowing was made easier.

Summary The use of a sensory input at the base of the mouth as part of biofeedback is technically achievable, improves laryngeal movement and thus expands therapeutic options. In a prospective study this effect is now being tested on patients.

Poster-PDF A-1656.pdf

Conflict of interest

Der Erstautor gibt keinen Interessenskonflikt an.

Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021