ABSTRACT
Objective:
to compare the acoustic oropharyngeal swallowing time parameter in adult and elderly subjects, in different consistencies and volumes, using Doppler Sonar.
Methods:
the study was conducted in two stages. Firstly, the Screening Protocol of Swallowing Risk was applied. In the second stage, the individuals were submitted to a swallowing assessment with Doppler Sonar. The subjects received the following food consistencies during the assessment: dry swallowing (saliva), liquid, nectar, honey and pudding, in the volumes of 5 ml, 10 ml and free swallowing. The acoustic parameter analyzed in this study was Acoustic Swallowing Time (T).
Results:
objective and measurable outcomes were obtained; the difference in swallowing time between the adult and elderly subjects in relation to the consistency and the volume was mostly significant.
Conclusion:
a change in swallowing time was observed both in relation to the consistency and the volume of the food bolus when the elderly and adult subjects were compared.
Keywords:
Swallowing; Time; Acoustic