|Return to Grand Rounds Index| Aspiration is a frequently
misunderstood diagnosis. Many healthcare workers either under-
diagnose aspiration or assign the diagnosis improperly. More
importantly, many physicians fail to recognize aspiration and
dysphagia as a symptom of other disease processes. Needless to
say, the confusion surrounding the diagnosis often leads to
delayed intervention and treatment. Otolaryngologists are an
integral part of the team caring for the aspirating patient. In
the case of patients aspirating after surgery for the
extirpation of head and neck malignancy, the otolaryngologist
plays the lead role in the diagnosis and treatment of the
problem. When neuromuscular disease is the causative factor
however, the otolaryngologist acts as a consultant to the
primary care physician or medical specialist. Speech
pathologists play a key role in the rehabilitation and care of
the aspirating patient and are well equipped to aid in their
evaluation and treatment. This discussion will review the physio