Service users’ and carers’ perspectives on the use of ultrasound in swallowing assessment and management

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.