Feasibility of Instrumental Swallowing Assessments in Patients With Prolonged Disordered Consciousness While Undergoing Inpatient Rehabilitation

Abstract

The majority of participants who underwent an instrumental swallowing examination while still functioning at RLA level II/III or RLA level III were able to return to some form of oral feedings immediately following their baseline examination. Swallowing as a treatment modality can be considered a part of the overall plan to facilitate neurobehavioral recovery for patients with prolonged disordered consciousness participating in rehabilitation.