Dystrophies and myopathies (including oculopharyngeal)

Abstract

As previous chapters have illustrated, the oropharyngeal swallow is the end result of several coordinated neuromuscular elements: velopharyngeal closure, tongue loading, tongue pulsion, closure of the laryngeal vestibule, upper esophageal sphincter opening, and pharyngeal clearance. It is estimated that more than 30 muscles are involved in the various stages of the swallow. Muscular disorders leading to impairment in any of these steps can cause dysphagia. A better understanding of the swallowing problems associated with these conditions may help in guiding treatment, choosing technical aids, modifying the consistency of foods, swallowing rehabilitation, and nutritional support by the non-oral route.