A videofluoroscopy is an X-ray that looks at the way your swallowing works. It is one of a number of tests which can be used to investigate any problems you have with swallowing. 

This test gives us a clearer picture of what is happening in your mouth or throat when you swallow. It also allows us to see if there are ways to make your swallow safer and easier.

Preparing for a videofluoroscopy

• You do not have to stop eating and drinking before the test.
• Please let us know in advance if you have any physical disabilities or special seating needs so we can make arrangements as needed.
• Please remember to bring dentures if you wear them.
• If you use special cups or cutlery, please bring them along.
• We may ask you to remove earrings, necklaces and zipped tops before the test as they can interfere with the X-ray image.

The videofluoroscopy scan

You will be seated in front of an X-ray machine. We will ask you to swallow different kinds of food and drinks of different consistencies.

You may find the taste unusual because a contrast, a special liquid that shows up on X-rays, is added to the food and drink. As you swallow we will examine what is happening in your mouth and throat on the X-ray machine. We also make a video recording of the test. This test does not involve any tubes and it does not hurt.

Two speech and language therapists, a radiologist (specialist doctor) and a radiographer (the person who records the procedure) will be there with you. Other health care professionals or carers may be present if needed.

The test takes about 30 minutes in total.

Are there any significant risks or side effects to videofluoroscopy?

Radiation can be harmful in large doses. However, a very low dose of radiation is used for the X-rays. We take every precaution when using radiation. To avoid any unnecessary risks, babies and children are not permitted in the X-ray room.

If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant it is extremely important that you advise the radiologist or speech and language therapist before the test. This is because radiation, even in small doses, can cause harm to unborn babies.

Aspiration – when food or drink goes “down the wrong way”, into the windpipe – can happen during the test. We take strict precautions to avoid this and can take immediate action should it occur.

Please remember that we would not recommend this test if we did not believe the benefits outweighed any potential risks. The speech and language therapists are happy to talk through any concerns you may have about the test – please just ask.

When will I receive the videofluoroscopy results?

We will usually be able to give you some immediate feedback on the results. However, we will need to analyse the videorecording carefully before we are able to give you a full set of results. This usually takes place within the same week. Your speech and language therapist will advise you of any changes you may need to make in your eating and drinking once the full results are available.

A report is written for your doctors. Please ask if you would like a copy of the report as well.

Read more on videofluoroscopy for children.