Portiuncula University Hospital implements new Videofluoroscopy Service

Portiuncula University Hospital (PUH) recently introduced a new Videofluoroscopy Service for patients in the hospital who need an x-ray assessment of their swallow.

Videofluoroscopy is an x-ray examination of the swallow and is considered the ‘gold standard’ for the assessment of swallowing difficulties and can be used for assessment, diagnosis and management of dysphagia. The videofluoroscopy service is led by the Speech and Language Therapy Department in partnership with the Radiology Department.

Speaking about the new videofluoroscopy service at the hospital, Senior Speech and Language Therapist, Fiona Brennan, said: “On behalf of myself and the team we are delighted to be able to offer this service to our in-patients at PUH as previously patients had to travel elsewhere for the procedure, which took time and was an inconvenience for patients. Having videofluoroscopy will not only improve the range of services we can deliver but also provide a more positive experience for the patient.”

Radiography Services Manager, Caroline Hanrahan, added: “We are delighted to work with our colleagues in the Speech and Language Therapy Department on this important diagnostic service.”

Hospital Manager, James Keane, said: “The new videofluoroscopy service will deliver the latest technology to patients and facilitate a more patient-centred approach to care. This new service will improve rehabilitation outcomes and support patients to return to their normal lives outside of hospital.”

Dysphagia is the medical term used to describe swallowing difficulties which may be a symptom of a range of medical conditions such as; stroke, progressive neurological conditions for example Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, respiratory conditions, head and neck cancer, physical and intellectual disabilities, palliative care needs or the normal ageing process.