Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study

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The videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) is a test that shows what happens in the mouth and throat when you swallow. During the VFSS, your child will have X-rays taken while they eat and drink. The food and drinks have barium in them, so they’ll show up better in the X-rays.

Preparing for the Test

  • Before your child’s VFSS, explain it to them. This will help them know what to expect during the test.
  • Your child needs to stop eating and drinking 2 hours before the exam.
  • You must bring the following to your child’s appointment:
    • Insurance card.
    • Photo identification (ID).
    • Written consent to attend the test and get test results if you do not have legal custody of the child.
  • You should bring the following items:
    • Your child’s bottle, cup, and utensils.
    • Food that your child will eat. Please do this if your child has any food allergies, is a picky eater, or has problems with certain food textures. You do not need to bring formula or liquid for them to drink.
  • You may give your child medicine any time before the test.

How the Test Is Done

  • You may be in the room with your child during the test. However, you, other children, or anyone with you who is pregnant cannot be in the test room.
  • The VFSS is done in the radiology department by a radiologist, a speech language pathologist (SLP), or an occupational therapist (OT).
  • Your child will sit in a chair that looks like a car seat. They will be fed just like they are at home. However, they may have to eat in different positions during the test.
  • Food and drinks used during the test will be mixed with barium, so they show up on X-rays. This helps the doctor, health care provider, OT, and SLP see how your child chews and swallows. The barium may make the food taste a little different. Your child may be given a few types of foods and drinks during the test.
  • There will be a large X-ray machine beside your child’s chair. When it’s on, it will make clicking noises. The machine will record how your child eats and drinks.
  • The tests should take about 2 hours.
  • If you have any questions during the test, ask the radiologist or therapist.

After the Test

  • The first (initial) test results and any suggestions will be sent home with you after the test. It takes 24 to 48 hours for the full results to be ready.
    • Your child’s doctor or health care provider will reach out to go over the results.
    • If needed, we’ll teach you about the foods and liquids we suggest for your child.
  • You may notice a small amount of barium in your child’s poop after the test. It may look like chalk. This will go away as the barium leaves their body.
  • If you need to change the appointment, call the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Central Scheduling Department at (614) 722-6200.

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