Use of CT for Dysphagia Evaluation: Advantages and Disadvantages in the Study of Swallowing

Swallowing computed tomography (CT) allows dynamic three-dimensional visualization of swallowing. This review article summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of performing swallowing CT.

Visualization of swallowing-related structures three-dimensionally supports the use of swallowing CT in clinical, research, and educational settings. Several morphological and kinematic analyses can be performed to study swallowing physiology and pathophysiology. However, radiation dose, reclining posture during scanning, and lower time resolution compared to videofluoroscopy are disadvantages of this technology. Technological advances may mitigate these disadvantages in the future.

Swallowing CT can be used in clinical, educational, and research applications while recognizing that limitations exist to the use of this modality.