Skill-based swallowing therapy using a computer-based training program improves swallowing-related quality of life and swallowing function for adults with dysphagia: a pilot study

Abstract

Dysphagia is a highly prevalent condition in the elderly and those with neurological disease that can have a major adverse impact on quality of life. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a computer-based training program, called the Biofeedback in Strength and Skill Training (BiSSkiT). This program uses surface electromyography to target motor control and swallowing precision, by providing feedback regarding the timing and strength of muscle contractions in patients with dysphagia. A single-group pre-post study was undertaken, involving 10 participants with chronic dysphagia. Ten training sessions using the BiSSkiT program were undertaken over 3 to 4 weeks. Questionnaires evaluating patient-reported swallowing-related quality of life and swallowing function were completed twice at baseline, again at postintervention, and at 1 month follow-up. Improvements in outcome measures were seen, suggesting that the BiSSkiT computer-based training program may improve swallowing-related quality of life and swallowing function. Such computer-based interventions hold considerable promise for people with dysphagia; however, more research is required.

Keywords:

• Deglutition Disorders
• Swallowing Disorders
• Rehabilitation
• Electromyography
• Speechlanguage Pathology
• Quality Of Life

Acknowledgments

We are grateful for funding provided by an Allied Health Collaborative Grant (University of South Australia, The Hospital Research Foundation, Allied and Scientific Health Office). Thank you to Associate Professor Sebastian Doeltgen, Flinders University, for assistance with the initial set-up of the BiSSkiT soft/hardware, and Dr. Terry Boyle, University of South Australia, for assistance with statistical analyses.

Appendices

Appendix A Participant feedback form about the BiSSkiT program

Appendix B Swallowing-related QOL (SWAL-QOL) and swallowing function (EAT-10) scores for each of the 10 participants

Appendix C Participant comments on using the BiSSkiT program

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dianna Burchell

Dianna Burchell is a senior speech-language pathologist, Day Rehabilitation Services, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia.

Samantha Hosking

Samantha Hosking is a speech-language pathologist, Day Rehabilitation Services, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia.

Maria Kambanaros

Maria Kambanaros is a professor of speech pathology, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia.

Kathy Stiller

Kathy Stiller is the allied health research coordinator, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia.