Evaluating current methods used for assessing swallowing difficulties and exploring the potential of a new tool called Ultrasound Evaluation of Swallowing.
Difficulties in swallowing are common in people living with MND. Early detection through screening and monitoring can help individuals and their families to prepare for the challenges, and to ensure that sufficient nutrition and hydration can be maintained. This could potentially be achieved through a new tool, called Ultrasound Evaluation of Swallowing (USES), which is an emerging tool used to assess swallowing. It can potentially address gaps in current services for people with swallowing problems, such as identifying problems and monitoring changes in swallowing functions in people with progressive conditions. It is less invasive than the current available assessment and can be repeated as frequently as required. It is also portable, which means that this can potentially be done closer to home for people living with MND.
This study will evaluate the current service in these areas, and explore the potential application of USES. Semi-structured interviews will be used for the service users and their carers to share their thoughts on the acceptability of USES, how it compares with other swallowing assessment experiences and the potential clinical application.
Taking Part
What does taking part involve?
The participant will be invited to take part in an interview, which will take about 30-60 minutes. Participants can request for rest at any time or arrange for the interview to be broken into 2 or 3 sessions.
The interview can either be in person if the participant is able to travel to Queen Margaret University (travel cost will be reimbursed) or online via video-conferencing software.
Who can take part?
• People with MND who have been diagnosed with swallowing difficulties
• Family members and carers of people with MND who have been diagnosed with swallowing difficulties
• Aged 18+
• Able to communicate in English
How can I take part?
To take part in the study or find out more information, please contact Joan Ma on [email protected].
Study location
UK-wide
Funding
This project is funded by The Royal Society of Edinburgh.