What happens during a tailored barium swallow study?
Each TBS will be set up to meet the needs of each person. For example, an infant may drink from a bottle whereas an older child and adult may drink from a cup and/or through a straw. The study is completed in a radiology (x-ray) suite or room. The Speech-Language Pathologist (speech therapist) works with a radiologist. The Speech Pathologist selects food/and or liquid textures to be studied, determines the number of bites and the size or amount of each bite. The Speech Pathologist also provides treatment for swallowing problems. The radiologist operates the fluoroscopy equipment, makes medical diagnoses, and identifies if there are any structural problems. For children, a family member or caregiver may stay in the room and may be asked to feed the child.
