A Literature Review of Quantitative Videofluoroscopic Measures of Swallowing in the Pediatric Population

Purpose: This study aims to (a) organize, synthesize, and compare current quantitative measures obtained during videofluoroscopic exam of swallowing used in the pediatric population and (b) examine methodological variations in how these measures are defined across studies. Understanding these variations is essential for developing protocols and establishing normative data that may guide clinical decision making in pediatric dysphagia management. Method: A literature review of studies related to videofluoroscopic swallow measures in the pediatric population was conducted. Measures and definitions were extracted from seven studies that met the inclusion criteria. Results: Across the seven studies, the age range varied considerably from 0 to 21 years, with most studies focusing on infants and children aged 0–48 months. Quantitative measures used to assess swallow function were organized and compared into predetermined four areas (safety, efficiency, kinematics, and durations) across studies. Conclusions: This review provides an analysis of currently available quantitative videofluoroscopic swallow study measures used in the pediatric population. While some methodological differences exist, the identified parameters offer a foundation for developing components of an assessment protocol that may help critically evaluate the level of swallow severity in a given pediatric individual. Notably, the consistency observed in the kinematic measures as well as measures of safety and efficiency suggests emerging consensus in these areas.