The Effectiveness of Swallowing Maneuvers on Improving the Quality of Life of Neurogenic Dysphagia Patients at Central General Hospital of Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo and State College Hospital of Hasanuddin University

Abstract

Introduction: Dysphagia is a geriatric syndrome and a common problem in acute stroke patients. Dysphagia occurs in half of stroke patients and has an impact on aspiration pneumonia, dehydration, malnutrition, and a negative effect on quality of life (QoL).

Aim: To determine the improvement in the quality of life of patients with neurogenic dysphagia after swallow maneuver (SM) therapy.

Method: A cross-sectional study in Makassar conducted on May–October 2023. Ten neurogenic dysphagia patients (4 males and 6 females) were participating in SM therapy (for 8 weeks). Bazaz Dysphagia Severity Scale (BDSS) and Flexible Endoscopy Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) were used to determine the degree of dysphagia. Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire (SWAL-QOL) was used to determine the effectiveness of the swallowing therapy. FEES and SWAL-QOL scores before the first therapy session and after the last therapy session were compared using a paired t-test.

Result: Of a total of 10 participants, all (100%) had moderate dysphagia based on BDSS and when examined for FEES, all (100%) of patients had residue. Based on SWAL-QOL, all (100%) of participants had moderate QoL. After the swallowing maneuver, 5 participants (50%) had mild dysphagia, and 4 (40%) participants had no residue anymore. Participants showed a significant improvement in the Swal-QOL (mean score increased from 9 points, p<0.001).

Conclusion: The Swallowing Maneuver is effective in improving the QoL of neurogenic dysphagia sufferers by reducing residue in the swallowing process and the severity of dysphagia.