Viscosity and quality of images of thickened liquid after adding barium contrast for swallow studies

PURPOSE:

to study the viscosity of baby formula thickened for swallowing study after adding Barium.

METHODS:

200ml glasses of formula were thickened to nectar, honey and pudding consistencies using seven different thickeners. Mean viscosity was verified with a viscometer at room temperature after warming above 40ºC and also after adding Barium contrast at 50%, 25% and 12,5% concentrations. The prepared formula was exposed to fluoroscopy and the images were evaluated regarding visualization of the formula at different consistencies, concentrations of barium and thickeners.

RESULTS:

when comparing mean centipoise (cps) measures, the viscosity was significantly lower for the temperature above 40ºC than room temperature. When Barium contrast was added to the formula thickened to nectar and to pudding consistencies, a significant change into honey consistency was verified. There were no differences in quality of the images between the formula with Barium concentrations at 50% and 25%.

CONCLUSION:

significant changes in viscosity of nectar and pudding can occur after adding Barium to thickened baby formula. Reduction of Barium concentration to 25% did not result in significant changes in quality of images. Findings suggest importance of standardization of formula preparation for swallow studies regarding viscosity and concentration of Barium to assure consistency of the exam, prevent incorrect diagnose while optimizing orientation regarding diet modification in infant with dysphagia.

Deglutition; Deglutition Disorders; Barium; Viscosity; Fluoroscopy