The modified barium swallow study: What’s it like?

If your child has dysphagia or another swallowing problem, their physician may recommend a “swallow study.” Technically called a modified barium swallow study, this test can help clinicians determine whether a child is aspirating, which means that food or liquid is entering their lungs when they try to eat or drink. “This study is completely voluntary in that we can’t force a child to eat during the test, but it does give us a better picture of whether kids are feeding safely,” explains Kara Larson, a speech-language pathologist in the Aerodigestive Center and Feeding and Swallowing Program at Boston Children’s Hospital.

To learn more, follow along with her patient Mia as she undergoes a modified barium swallow study.

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Learn more about the Aerodigestive Center and Feeding and Swallowing Program.