J Korean Dysphagia Soc.  2011 Jan;1(1):39-46.

Surgical Management of Dysphagia

• Han MW
• Choi SH

Abstract

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, occurs commonly, especially in elderly and debilitated patients. Dysphagia encompasses a wide range of etiologies. Its proper evaluation and treatment uses tools and expertise from a variety of specialties working toward the common goals of safety and satisfactory quality of life. The head and neck surgeon can be an important member of the dysphagia rehabilitation team. Most causes of dysphagia do not require surgical intervention to accomplish these goals; however, several entities warrant surgery to treat a specific problem or to augment medical/therapeutic management. The role of surgery in the management of dysphagia is clear in some areas and controversial in others. Evaluation for the causes of dysphagia elucidates conditions that have been shown to benefit from surgery for safety, for improved quality of life, or both. Surgical therapy, when indicated, is safe and effective for many causes of dysphagia.

Keyword

Dyshagia; Surgery