Good evening Forum;

I am wondering if anyone has had any experience with electrical stimulation of their throat and related muscles to facilitate improved swallowing. I have just been made aware of this treatment, and although I understand it is somewhat controversial in nature, I am interested in anything that can help rid me of the feeding tube.

I would appreciate any information or suggestion whatsoever, and thank you in advance for your reply.

Sincerely,
JT2

Are you refering to TENS? It won't help because the muscles in your neck have been permanently damaged by the radiation. I own a TENS unit and I wouldn't even think of putting it on my throat. If you had a flap, it is non functional as far as swallowing is concerned - it's mainly there to bulk up the area.

Your best bet is swallowing therapy. Your muscles will need to been retrained.

I agree completely with Gary. I asked about that during my post radiation recovery period and was told by my ENT that it would serve no purpose other than to make me uncomfortable. Swallowing is a learned skill to a degree, and improvement in function following sugery/radiation is accomplished through therapy and exercise. My ability to swallow nearly disappeared during my stay in the hospital ( I had a feeding tube, and a trach, so it was out of the question for a couple of weeks. It did take several months however to regain it afterwards though.
Wayne