Swallowing examination
The swallowing examination under fluoroscopy observes the real-time function and structure of your throat.
The examination is recommanded to diagnose deglutition (swallowing) problems such as:
- Difficulty chewing or controlling food or liquids in your mouth
- Any choking caused by food or liquid entering your airways (aspiration)
- Food lodging in your throat when you eat
- Pain when swallowing
Examination procedure
For the procedure, you must:
- Wear a hospital gown and remove jewelry and any metal object that might adversely affect image quality
- Drink barium, a liquid contrast agent with a slight flavour or vanilla or strawberry
The radiologist will view your deglutition mechanism in real time as you swallow (progression from mouth to esophagus)
Please note that the total duration of your visit for this examination can be between 30 and 60 minutes, even though the examination procedure itself will only last between 5 and 10 minutes.
Preparing for the Examination
No preparation is necessary to take this exam. You don't need to be fasting.
A medical prescription is required to perform this examination. The cost of this examination is covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) at Imagix when prescribed by a physician.*
*Members of the College des Médecins du Québec (CMQ) registered in the Quebec Physicians Directory
