What occurs in a video fluoroscopic evaluation of swallowing?

Swallowing/feeding: Videofluoroscopy is recorded dynamic radiography that utilizes continuous x-rays to assess swallowing function. Chemicals stored in the fluorescent screen become illuminated when they are exposed to x-rays. This helps identify the swallowing or feeding disorders (dysphagia). Tests are usually done by speech-language pathologist.

Barium is imaged: You swallow a radio-opaque solution of barium (chalky tasting) while a video xray is run which follows the solution through your mouth--throat-esophagus and into your stomach to see if there is any slow down or catch area as you swallow. Painless.