Title: Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction | Columbia University Medical Center Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
Headings: Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction
Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction
Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction
What is cricopharyngeal dysfunction?
How is cricopharyngeal dysfunction diagnosed?
How is cricopharyngeal dysfunction treated?
What is the outlook for people with cricopharyngeal dysfunction?
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Content: An esophageal manometry measures the rhythmic muscle contractions, and the coordination and force exerted by the muscles, that occur in the esophagus when a person swallows. During this test, a thin, flexible tube (catheter) that contains sensors is passed through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. ( The throat and nose are numbed for this test.) Patients will be asked to take small sips of water and swallow on command during the test. Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBS): During this test patients are asked to swallow a variety of substances that are coated with barium, a whitish paste that lights up during an X-ray, enabling the examiner to determine how well these substances are moving through the mouth, pharynx, and esophagus. The test will show if the upper esophageal sphincter is not relaxing or if foods or liquids are blocked as they pass through the esophagus. How is cricopharyngeal dysfunction treated? In some cases physicians treat cricopharyngeal dysfunction by temporarily paralyzing the UES with an injection of botulinum (Botox). This approach is not effective for every patient, and the injections need to be repeated every 3-6 months.