Oropharyngeal dysphagia

Swallowing is a highly coordinated cascade of events, involving 30 pairs of muscles, six pairs of cranial/cervical nerves, and brain-stem and cortical swallowing centers, that results int he passage of ingested materials and oropharyngeal secretions into the esophagus. This elaborate mechanism of oropharyngeal swallowing ensures two important functions: (1) transit of the bolus and (2) simultaneous protection of the airway. It is normal when transit of the ingested material from the mouth into the esophagus is completed without compromising the airway. Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) may result when the efficacy or coordination of either the transport or protective aspect of swallowing are compromised.

Duke Scholars

Author Lisa Deneen Hobson-Webb Neurology, Neuromuscular Disease

Author Priya Sunil Kishnani Pediatrics, Medical Genetics