What to expect for your child's Modified Barium Swallow Study

A Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) is a test that captures real-time video of your child's swallowing function while they eat and drink. An X-ray and a contrast liquid called barium are used during the test. Your child will eat and drink the barium during the MBSS, allowing us to test their swallowing function and check for aspiration (when food or drink enters the airway). A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and a Radiologist will assist with the exam.

During the test, the SLP might ask you to help feed your child and keep them comfortable, provided there is no chance you are pregnant. The MBSS typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes. After the test, your child can usually resume their regular activities and eating habits unless the doctor advises otherwise.

What should you do prior to the exam?

Your child will need to have an empty stomach for the MBSS. Please do not let your child eat or drink for 2 hours before the test. Dress your child comfortably in clothes that are easy to remove. Try to avoid clothing with snaps, buttons, or zippers.

Please bring any bottles or cups that your child drinks from, so we can use them during the exam. Also, please bring any foods that your child enjoys eating or has difficulty with. You can also bring a toy your child likes to comfort your them.

Parents are welcome to attend their child's MBSS in the exam room. However, arrangements should be made for siblings to be cared for elsewhere. For the safety of pregnant women or those who may be pregnant, they will be asked to leave the exam room during the test. Please have someone else available to stay with your child for the test if necessary.

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time to check-in and sign paperwork.

What should you expect during the exam?

The SLP will ask questions about your child's medical history and any concerns you may have. Then, the SLP will explain the test to both you and your child.

Your child will sit in a small chair or lay on a table next to the X-ray machine, where they will eat and drink barium in different consistencies (e.g., thin liquids like water, purees like pudding). The barium will be visible on the X-ray screen.

 

The chair your child will sit in for the swallow study.

What should you expect after the exam?

If your child has a bowel movement after the test, it may appear white or grayish — do not be alarmed! The barium can cause this discoloration. Please note that barium has no nutritional value. If you have any concerns, contact your child's physician.

Exam Results

The images from your child's test will be interpreted, and a report will be sent to your referring physician's office. A copy of the report will also be available to you in MyChart.