Endoscopic multicolor investigation of swallowing.

Background: The complexity of the diagnostic/therapeutic problem in ENT-spe cific as well as in neurogenic dysphagia requires that test foods be offere d in a variety of consistencies (viscosities), at different temperatures, a nd with various tastes. The swallowing assessment is undertaken with differ ent head and trunk postures, using different swallowing techniques. Methods : A series of test foods of varied viscosities is prepared with different f ood colorings. It is given to the patient according to an individually tail ored viscosity plan, but usually in the same (repeatable) color sequence of blue - yellow or blue - yellow - black, an order which offers optimal colo r contrasts. Results, Conclusions: During repeated swallowing assessments, the "multicolor technique" is more useful for endoscopic observation of the pharyngolaryngeal route of the food bolus than the "methylene blue swallow ". Food coloring is cheap and it changes neither the taste nor the pH of th e food.