I am a Speech-Language Pathologist from Delaware and I am currently pursuing my SLP.D. As part of the course, we are required to create a blog on our dissertation topic. I hope this topic attracts some attention and feedback! My topic is not narrowed down as much as I would like (or need) it to be however, hopefully it is a good start. Enjoy!
Dissertation Topic: Cervical Auscultation
My area of interest and research includes the use of cervical auscultation in the diagnosis of swallowing disorders. First introduced decades ago, cervical auscultation remains a controversial diagnostic method in the field of Speech-Language Pathology. The questions of its usefulness, accuracy, and training requirements to implement, remain largely unanswered. Cervical auscultation is a method employed by some Speech-Language Pathologists in order to subjectively diagnose the presence of dysphagia. This is completed by using a stethoscope to auscultate the lateral portion of the anterior neck over the thyroid cartilage and listen to the acoustics of swallowing physiology (Takahashi, Groher, & Michi, 1994). Unfortunately, cervical auscultation has little evidence-based support on accuracy in diagnosing the presence of dysphagia. Further, the training requirements to implement this technique also remain ambiguous. Further research is needed to examine these research deficits.
References:
Takahashi, K., Groher, M.E., & Michi, K. (1994). Methodology for detecting
swallowing sounds. Dysphagia 9(1), 54-62
Great job Gina on your blog and your problem statement! Everything looks great!! Keep blogging on your progress!!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteAwesome topic Gina. I remember when I did this for the first time. You really need a trained ear and know what you're listening for. I can't wait to see how this goes for you! - H.
ReplyDeleteThanks Holly!
DeleteHi Gina! I remember learning about this method in school. I never had the opportunity to see it in the real world. How do you find it to be as far as a reliable diagnostic measure?
ReplyDeleteHi Deb! Unfortunately the reliability and validity research is seriously lacking on this topic. And the research that I DID find thus far is conflicting. Personally, I like the use of CA to augment bedside swallow evaluations. I certainly do not think it is reliable enough to replace traditional methods but could be a nice adjunct.
DeleteGerard:
ReplyDeleteGreat Blog Gina. Direct and to the point.
I think the reliability depends on the evaluator. Over the years I have become more confident in my ability to use CA during bedside swallow evaluations. Didn't start out that way though. I am very interested to see how your research develops.
Thanks Gerard!
ReplyDelete