Abstract:
Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, are an underrecognized side effect after heart
surgery that is becoming more frequently documented in the literature. A patient's
quality of life, dietary intake, and postoperative recuperation may all be severely
hampered. Between 10% and 50% of people experience dysphagia after heart surgery,
however, this condition is probably underdiagnosed because of its vague symptoms and
overlap with those of postoperative pain and exhaustion. Multiple factors contribute to
the pathophysiology of postoperative dysphagia. Trauma related to mechanical
ventilation, specifically endotracheal intubation, may be one such process that causes
either irreparable or reversible damage to the swallowing muscles or nerves. Due to the
previously indicated damage to the pharyngeal and laryngeal structures, swallowing
function may also be affected by nasal surgery and relocation. Neurogenic reasons (e.g.,
cranial nerve injuries, notably of the vagus and glossopharyngeal nerves) and
postoperative abnormalities in esophageal motility and inflammation posterior to the
sternum also play a role. Other anatomical defects or gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD) may worsen symptoms in certain patients. Early detection and precise
diagnosis are essential for the effective management of dysphagia. Adopting routine
postoperative screening for swallowing issues is recommended, particularly for at-risk
individuals. Speech and swallowing therapy, dietary modifications, and possibly
surgery for anatomical or neurological reasons are all part of the multifaceted treatment
plan. Additionally, nutritional care could be required to prevent malnutrition and
dehydration. One problem following heart surgery that is frequently underreported is
dysphagia. He said more research was necessary to evaluate its frequency, elucidate its
biological causes, and identify the most effective treatment, noting that it might affect
recovery. This could lead to better results and avoid long-term issues with early
intervention and a proactive search strategy.
Keywords: cardiovascular surgery, dysphagia symptoms, laryngeal
structures, gastroesophageal reflux
Description:
This dissertation is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Speech and Language Therapy, Bangladesh Health Professions Institute, Faculty of Medicine, the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.