Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS)

About the VFSS

This test helps your SLP see what happens in your mouth and throat when you swallow. It helps show:

• if food and drinks are getting into your airway instead of your stomach, which is called “aspiration”
• which parts of your mouth and throat may not work well
• what kinds of food and drinks may be safe for you to swallow
• if you swallow better when using swallowing strategies (provided by your SLP) or if have trouble with specific things, such as drinking with a straw

Babies and young children can also have this test done. Your SLP can tell you more about what to expect for your child.

What to Expect When Having a VFSS

You may have questions about a VFSS. Your SLP can provide information and answer your questions. Here is an overview of what to expect.

Who will perform the test?

Your SLP may do this test with a doctor, called a radiologist. A radiology technician may also be there to help you get ready and to set up and run the equipment.

Where is the test performed?

This test usually happens in the radiology, or x-ray, department of a hospital.

What equipment is used?

The test uses an x-ray machine. Your SLP may record the test and watch it again later.

What will happen during the test?

You will sit or stand next to an x-ray machine. Your SLP will give you different foods and drinks mixed with barium (a chalky white substance). The barium makes the food and liquid show up on the x-ray. Barium will not hurt you or stay in your body long.

The x-ray machine is turned on only while you swallow, so you do not get too much radiation. You will put on a vest or cover made of lead to protect your body from x-rays.

During the test, your SLP may ask you to:

• eat soft and hard foods
• drink thin and thick liquids
• take small or large bites and sips
• move your head in different positions
• swallow hard

You should not have this test done if you think you may be pregnant.

Babies and young children can also have a VFSS. You may need to hold your child in your lap during the test. When children take the test, both the caregiver and child may wear a vest or cover. You may feed your baby from a bottle during the test if that is how they eat. Barium is not dangerous for babies or children. You may see it in the baby’s diaper for a few days after the test.

VFSS cannot be done with children who are breastfeeding only, because there is no way to get the barium into milk that comes directly from the breast. Children who are breastfeeding may benefit from a different type of study called a flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES).

After the VFSS

Your SLP and doctor will talk about what they saw during the test. The SLP may show you the video of the test so you can see what happens when you swallow. Your SLP will use the test results to decide what treatment will help your swallowing. You and your SLP will discuss what foods and liquids are safest, and how to eat and drink them.

To find an SLP near you visit ProFind.