Patients Having a Video Swallow

What is a video swallow?

This is an examination, performed while you swallow, which is recorded in real time using x-rays. The images can be replayed for the doctor and speech therapists. This may help to provide a diagnosis, help identify your symptoms or decide further treatment options.

What will happen?

• You will be asked by the radiographer to get changed into a gown, this ensures there is nothing that will show up on the images like a bra, buttons or jewellery
• The radiographer will check your details to ensure you are the correct person and are having the correct examination
• If you are aged between 10 and 55 you will be asked to confirm your gender and if there is a chance of pregnancy
• You will be standing during the procedure (it is possible to be completed in a wheelchair but please notify us if this is something you require)
• You will be given a substance called Barium. It is a thick, chalky liquid that will show up on the x-rays while swallowing. It will be mixed with different liquids and foods like yoghurt, banana and biscuits
• If you eat or drink out of a special container, please bring this along with you.

Is there any preparation?

There is no preparation for the examination so please continue to take your normal medications.

Who will I meet?

Radiologist (A doctor who specialises in X-rays)
Radiographer
Speech and language therapist
Student radiographer

How long does it take?

The actual examination can take 20 minutes, but you will be in the department for about 40 minutes.

After the examination

• After the examination is complete you can eat and drink normally.
• Barium can cause constipation, so we suggest you drink plenty of fluids and try to eat more fruit and vegetables over the next two days.
• If you do become constipated, take over the counter medication.
• You may notice your stool is lighter in colour.

How do I get the results?

Your results will go back to the clinician who sent you for this examination.

Parking and getting here

Car parking available is available on site. Diagnostic Imaging, Level 1 South Wing.

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions, or are worried about anything, please speak to the following Dorset County Hospital staff:

X-ray appointments team: 01305 254428
Dorset County Hospital Switchboard: 01305 251120
Patient Experience team: 0800 7838058

About this leaflet

Author: Jeanette Bartlett, Lead Interventional Senior Radiographer.
Written: December 2020
Updated and approved: March 2025
Review date: March 2028
Edition: v3

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk