The speech-language pathologist: a gastroenterologist’s “secret weapon” in the fight against dysphagia

Czech version

Authors: I. Fillová ¹ ; Martin Ďuriček ² ; Š. Plutko ² ; B. Malý ² ; J. Mikler ³ ; R. Richterová ¹ ; P. Bánovčin ² ; B. Kolarovszki ¹
Authors‘ workplace: Neurochirurgická klinika JLF UK a UN Martin ¹; Interná klinika – gastroenterologická JLF UK a UN Martin ²; Klinika detí a dorastu JLF UK a UN Martin ³
Published in: Gastroent Hepatol 2026; 80(4): 284-292
Category: Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology: Review Article
doi: https://doi.org/10.48095/ccgh2026284

Overview

Dysphagia represents a clinically significant swallowing disorder with the potential to meaningfully affect respiratory safety, hydration, nutritional status, and the patient`s overall quality of life. In gastroenterological practice, dysphagia is most often manifested in case of suspected esophageal etiology. Nowadays, the clinical presentation is increasingly influenced by oropharyngeal and functional components of swallowing disorders. In this context, the diagnosis and management of dysphagia are determined by an interdisciplinary approach, in which the cooperation of the gastroenterologist and speech-language pathologist plays a key role. The gastroenterologist focuses on identifying the organic etiology of the impairments, while the speech-language pathologist assesses the functional swallowing process, risk of aspiration, and utilizes behavioral interventions for oropharyngeal dysphagia. The coordinated approach of both specialitis enables a more accurate differential diagnosis, early identification of at-risk patients, safer nutritional support, and more effective therapeutic management. Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for optimizing the care of patients with dysphagia, significantly influencing clinical outcomes and the patient`s quality of life.

Keywords:

oropharyngeal dysphagia – deglutition – speech-language pathology – dysphagiology – behavioral therapy

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