Videofluoroscopy

Videofluoroscopy is a diagnostic X-ray of swallowing that is done as a moving image and saved to video/DVD. The present equipment is very old and gives limited diagnostic ability due to poor vision and lack of sound as well as a bright green slightly out of focus picture. This service is run by the Speech and Language Therapy Department and currently they hold a clinic every other week. It was felt that there was an urgent need for a system that allowed for more urgent access to accurate diagnosis. Any unrecognised aspiration when eating or drinking can lead to pneumonia, reduce rehabilitation potential, prolong recovery time and ultimately delay discharge.

This equipment is not cheap and the total cost was £49,725.00 but the Friends Committee considered that this was a very worthwhile project and were willing to provide the funds needed.