Dysphagia Due Dynamic Disorders

Abstract

Various abnormalities, involving dysfunction of the muscles and the peripheral or central nervous system, can cause swallowing disorders. An accurate determination of the location and degree of lesions, as well as detailed observation of the swallowing functions, are necessary in the management of dysphagia. Dysphagia caused by disorders of central nervous system can be divided into two groups: lesions of the corticobulbar tract and those of the brainstem involving the central pattern generator. Pathophysiology and treatment are different in each group. Indications for the surgical treatment of dysphagia are discussed.