Show Notes
Dysphagia is an under-recognised but clinically important complication following cardiac surgery. In this episode, Prof. Cara Donohue discusses why dysphagia can occur despite surgery being anatomically distant from the swallowing mechanism. We explore the complexities of dysphagia in patients post cardiac surgery, highlighting risk factors, prevalence, assessment methods, and potential interventions. Cara shares her research findings and clinical perspectives, emphasising the importance of early detection and proactive management to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes.
Topics covered
Why dysphagia occurs after cardiac surgery
Mechanisms contributing to postoperative swallowing impairment
Prevalence and potential under-recognition of dysphagia in this population
Typical clinical and instrumental findings
Surgical and perioperative risk factors
Consequences for recovery and patient outcomes
The role of prehabilitation and respiratory strength training
Identifying patients who may benefit from preoperative interventions
Key clinical messages for SLTs in cardiothoracic settings
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