Table 1 Dysphagia Severity Rating Scale (adapted by Gates et al.[23])
0 | Normal swallowing | |
|---|---|---|
1 | Minimal dysphagia | VFFS shows a slight deviation from a normal swallow; impairment limited to oral stage |
2 | Mild dysphagia swallowing suggestion | Presence of oro-pharyngeal dysphagia; can be treated by means of specific swallowing suggestion |
3 | Mild to moderate dysphagia | Presence of oro-pharyngeal dysphagia potential for aspiration exists but can be diminished by specific swallowing techniques |
4 | Moderate dysphagia | Presence of oro-pharyngeal dysphagia; potential for aspiration exists: trace aspiration can be seen at VFSS |
5 | Severe dysphagia | Presence of aspiration; nothing by mouth is recommended |