Management of Dysphagia Following Traumatic Brain Injury

Howle, Alison A.;Baguley, Ian J.;Brown, Louise

Abstract

Dysphagia is a common morbidity and cause of mortality following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Despite this, there is a paucity of evidence demonstrating the efficacy of dysphagia management strategies and treatments in this population. Typically, subjects with dysphagia following TBI are placed into non-specific ‘neurogenic’ dysphagia subject groups, which include subjects with degenerative neurological diseases, neurological cancers, and cerebrovascular accident. However, dysphagia following TBI has a multifactorial presentation, with causative and contributory factors including cognitive-communication, behavioral, neurological, and mechanical issues. As such, the management for dysphagia post-TBI must be multifactorial, team-based and involve the patients’ families and carers. Much of the research regarding the management and treatment of dysphagia in general is in its infancy: larger and more rigorous studies are required to demonstrate treatment efficacy. More studies specifically examining dysphagia and its management in the TBI population are required to ensure the future efficacy and accuracy of treatment.

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Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports

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2167-4833

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Springer

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DOI

10.1007/s40141-014-0064-z