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Swallowing Signals Lab, Model 7120B
A Therapy Tool
The Swallowing Signals
Lab is an ideal therapy tool for speech pathologists working in acute care
and rehabilitation facilities. It is available as a stand-alone module or as
part of KayPENTAX’s Digital Swallowing Workstation. The versatile, PC-based
system provides a variety of real-time visual displays derived from separate
transducers, all related to critical aspects of swallowing. These
transducers can be used in isolation, or concurrently, allowing the
clinician to target specific behaviors followed by their immediate
observation. Interrelationships between important swallowing parameters can
be viewed in real time.
In addition to visual cues for the
patient, quantitative measurements are provided which can be stored in the
program’s patient-listed database. Data can be compared over time to monitor
progress based on objective parameters. An extensive bibliography
substantiates the clinical usage of each transducer; KayPENTAX has
integrated the analysis of these diverse signals into a single, convenient
system with user-friendly software.
MULTIPLE TRANSDUCER RATIONALE
Dysphagia can have a variety of contributing factors which a clinician
may wish to address in therapy both from assessment and treatment
standpoints. Depending on the patient, it is clearly advantageous to have
available a multifunctional array of signals to assist with therapy goals. A
summary of these is provided.
Surface
Electromyography (sEMG)
Numerous articles cite the effectiveness of using sEMG when
teaching various swallowing maneuvers (e.g., Mendelsohn maneuver, Valsalva
swallow, etc.). The transducer, usually placed in the submental region,
facilitates achievement of therapy goals with the real-time display. Two
channels of sEMG are provided, enabling the clinician to model the desired
waveform pattern or observe muscle activity at separate anatomic sites
(e.g., buccinator and submental areas).
Respiratory Phase
(Inspiration, Expiration, Apnea)
To monitor or teach proper coordination between breathing
and swallowing, a respiratory phase signal is provided. This signal is
derived from a nasal cannula and is color-coded to assist with phase
identification. Timing of respiratory phase in relation to the swallow can
be monitored both during and after swallows with time-linked cursors.
Features
-
Multi-functional
hardware/software system
-
Real-time
visual displays for therapy
-
Quantitative measurements
-
Multiple
physiologic-specific parameters
-
Report generator
to summarize key findings -
Designed
“from ground up” for swallowing
-
Compatible
with complete Digital Swallowing Workstation
The multi-channel tongue array is available in different
configurations. A two-channel array with bulbs on left and
right side can be used to objectively assess
strength and symmetry.
Coordination between breathing and swallowing can
be seen by observing respiratory phase signal
(lower) and sEMG signal (upper).
Tongue Array
If problems with the tongue are evident (e.g., paresis
affecting bolus transport), the multi-channel tongue array can be used to
quantify tongue strength and symmetry (i.e., left side vs. right side) to
help objectify assessment. Therapy can focus on isometric exercises for the
tongue in conjunction with visual display targets. As with all the
transducers, measurements can be made to observe progress.
Manometry
Pharyngeal/UES solid state manometry is normally performed
in conjunction with fluoroscopy to assist with sensor placement. Pressure
and timing measurements in the pharynx and the UES can be made with this
transducer. With the Digital Swallowing Workstation (see separate brochure), video
and physiologic data can be acquired concurrently on one monitor; these are
time-linked for precise correlational measurements.
Cervical Auscultation
A useful bedside screening and therapy device, the
stethoscopic microphone, placed in the submental region, allows the
clinician and patient to aurally monitor the pharyngeal stage of the swallow
and breathing. The acoustic waveform may also serve as a marker of the
swallow when viewed with other data.
Auxiliary Channels
The Swallowing Signals Lab provides two auxiliary inputs.
These allow other signals of interest to be acquired simultaneously with
those provided with the system.
System transducers include (from left) tongue array,
EMG electrodes, stethoscopic microphone, nasal
cannula, and solid state manometer. Two auxiliary
channels are provided for other signals of interest.
The external hardware module provides proper signal
conditioning specific to each transducer. Color-coded
input connectors facilitate quick setup for therapy.
OTHER SWALLOWING INSTRUMENTATION FROM KAYPENTAX
KayPENTAX also offers the complete Digital Swallowing
Workstation, FEES, and Portable FEES systems. For further information,
please contact the factory or your local representative (international).
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