Diagnostic Accuracy of an Esophageal Screening Protocol Interpreted by the Speech-Language Pathologist

Oropharyngeal and esophageal dysphagia may occur simultaneously. However, symptoms are often evaluated separately. Few standardized, multi-texture esophageal screening protocols exist as an addition to the modified barium swallow study (MBSS). Given the gap in MBSS evaluation standards, providers may be lacking information needed to fully assess the swallowing process and create appropriate dysphagia management plans. The aim was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of a standardized esophageal screening protocol performed by an SLP compared to formal reference esophageal examinations. A cross-sectional analytic study was performed. Consecutively referred patients who underwent same-day consultation with the SLP and a gastroenterologist were included. MBSS with a standardized esophageal screen was performed. Same-day formal esophageal testing was completed and included timed barium emptying study or high-resolution manometry. Summary diagnostic accuracy measures were calculated. Seventy-three patients matched the inclusion criteria. Median age was 62.5 years (25–87), 55% were female. Sensitivity of the esophageal screen for the detection of esophageal abnormality was 83.7% (95% CI 70–91.9%); specificity was 73.7% (95% CI 55.6–85.8%). The positive likelihood ratio was 3.14 (95% CI 1.71–5.77), whereas the negative likelihood ratio was 0.22 (95% CI 0.11–0.45). Positive and negative predictive values were 82% and 76%, respectively. Use of a systematic, multi-texture esophageal screen protocol interpreted by SLPs accurately identifies multiphase dysphagia and should be considered in addition to standard MBSS testing. Inclusion of a cursory esophageal view may more adequately assess dysphagia symptoms and help to promote multidisciplinary care.