Wentworth-Halton Swallowing Clinic
Lear Communication is excited to offer Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies (VFSS)/Modified Barium Swallowing (MBS) assessments and follow up treatment options to our clients in conjunction with Wentworth X-Ray & Ultrasound and S.L. Hunter Speechworks.
An instrumental swallowing assessment is a detailed examination to assess how well a person swallows food and liquids.
The process typically begins with a clinical (bedside) assessment, where the SLP reviews the patient’s medical history, observes their eating and drinking, and evaluates signs of difficulty, such as coughing, throat clearing, or changes in voice quality.
A Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) follows a standardized procedure that allows the speech-language pathologist to carefully and consistently evaluate how swallowing is functioning.
During the assessment, the patient is given small amounts of food and liquid of different consistencies. These are mixed with a harmless substance called barium, which allows them to be seen clearly on X-ray.
As the patient swallows, a continuous X-ray video (videofluoroscopy) is recorded. This allows the speech-language pathologist to observe how the muscles involved in swallowing are working and to see how food and liquid move from the mouth through the throat and into the esophagus. It also helps identify whether any material is entering the airway or becoming stuck.
The results of the assessment help determine the safest diet consistency, necessary therapy techniques, and any modifications needed to reduce the risk of choking or aspiration pneumonia. Through this evaluation, patients receive personalized strategies to improve swallowing safety and efficiency, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Gold Standard of Care
Our clinicians conduct thorough swallowing assessments following the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) guidelines, a global standard for managing swallowing difficulties across all ages, settings, and cultures.
Our private outpatient services allow you to skip the lengthy wait list for publicly-funded assessments and receive immediate assessment and treatment for your swallowing concerns. The imaging portion of the assessment is covered by OHIP, while the speech-language pathology assessment and interpretation are privately funded.
Indicators for a Swallowing Assessment
If you experience any of the following, a swallowing assessment and/or treatment may be beneficial:
✅ Coughing, gagging, or throat clearing during or after eating
✅ Feeling of food or pills “stuck” in the throat
✅ Food remaining in the mouth after swallowing
✅ Slow chewing or prolonged mealtime
✅ “Wet” or gurgly-sounding voice after eating
✅ Food falling from the mouth
✅ Pain while swallowing
Booking an Appointment
If you are requesting a Modified Barium Swallowing Assessment, the MBS/VFSS Referral Form must be completed by your physician.
- Download Physician’s Requisition Form
- Email or Fax completed form to Lear Communication, info@learcomm.ca , F: 905-667-1443.
In partnership with
Testing Location
Your assessment will be conducted at Wentworth-Halton X-Ray & Ultrasound. 1 Young Street, Unit #105, Hamilton, ON
T: 905-522-2344
Resources
View: Clinic Brochure
Download: Physician’s Requisition Form
please contact our office for information on pricing & fees
We’re here to help! Contact us for more information or to schedule an assessment and treatment.
