Length of time it takes to get an MBSS and obtain results

Hospital modified barium swallow study (MBSS) appointment times can be anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks away. Depending on the availability of the SLP and radiologist, the MBSS can be pushed out for several weeks. Once the MBSS is completed, the SLP and radiologist have to write their own reports, and may not be completed for a few days.

Mobile MBSS appointment times can range from 1 to more than 4 weeks away. In order to schedule a mobile MBSS, your facility SLP must spend at least 30 minutes filling out an intake form and gathering information from the chart before faxing the order to the company. Mobile MBSS companies may not have a great deal of flexibility regarding scheduling around patient appointment and SLP schedules.

At PJW Speech and Language Therapy, Inc., we schedule a time that is most convenient for the facility and arrive within 1-2 business days of receiving the physician’s order.

MBSS barium choice

Many MBSS providers use powdered barium (EZ-Paque) to reduce cost. The only barium product currently FDA approved for use in a MBSS is Varibar. Adding powdered barium can lead to inconsistent viscosity of food and liquid textures due to lack of precise measuring, and there is an unpleasant taste/texture when powdered barium is mixed in with food trials. Research has shown that aversions to taste and texture may negatively affect a patient’s swallowing pattern. Clients undergoing MBSS are also exposed to radiation during the study.

At PJW Speech and Language Therapy, Inc., we use food and liquid consistencies that follow IDDSI guidelines. Swallow studies are completed in real time and we use multiple bites and sips of food/liquid, incorporate strategies that provides a more comprehensive understanding of the patient’s swallowing.

Swallow study environment and radiation exposure

MBSS are done in a radiology exam room that is restrictive. Additionally, MBSS studies are limited to less than 5 minutes due to radiation exposure and require constantly stopping/starting the recording.

At PJW Speech and Language Therapy, Inc., we review every single study frame by frame to ensure we don’t miss swallow events. FEES studies are done at bedside in the comfort of the patient’s natural environment. There are no time restrictions and can last an entire meal if necessary.

Cost of re-hospitalizations

The following conditions account for 78% of all 30-day SNF rehospitalizations:

• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

• Respiratory infections

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

• Sepsis

• Electrolyte Imbalance

At PJW Speech and Language Therapy, Inc., we test a variety of compensatory strategies to determine the least restrictive diet.