About Our Program

UT Southwestern Medical Center offers expert and compassionate care for patients with all types of swallowing disorders (dysphagia).  Our specialists are respected authorities in the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of swallowing problems related to head  and neck cancer, to neurological problems (such as stroke, brain injury, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis) and to many other conditions.

Our physicians provide comprehensive examinations of the larynx, throat and tongue, and may also examine the stomach using a barium swallow or videoflouroscopy to view how foods and liquids are carried through the system.

A team of specialists discusses each patient’s unique condition and determines the best course of action for treatment. Specialists from otolaryngology, speech-language pathology, gastroenterology, neurology, and other disciplines combine their expertise to deliver the most effective strategy for addressing swallowing disorders.

Depending on the patient’s specific condition, our specialists may prescribe medications, offer surgical intervention, or recommend therapy. Treatment may include VitalStim therapy, therapeutic exercises, modifications of eating or swallowing behaviors, or changes to diet to decrease the risk of aspiration pneumonia.

With the comprehensive medical resources available at UT Southwestern, patients can receive their initial consultation, testing, treatments and therapies in one location. Our dedication to providing advanced health care within a single, easy-to-access environment makes an important difference in patients’ lives and long-term health.

At UT Southwestern, our specialists are sensitive to the special needs of swallowing impaired individuals.  By working to develop a relationship with each patient, our specialist help establish and environment that contributes to the patient’s success and improves his or her outlook on the future.

Patients with swallowing disorders can also be treated by our digestive disorders service.