Hi Dr. Landolfi;
Here is the next question from the group. First though, I want to pass on the sincere "thanks" expressed by many of the group members for your assistance.
Is there any evidence to show whether or not the swallow reflex can be coaxed back to use with continual practice, or if once damaged (either through growth of an ependymoma on the brainstem, or radiation treatment or operation to remove the tumor) is beyond repair?
Thank you (as always)
Bruce
The doctor's response...
Speech and swallowing evaluations are used to determine amount of damage. There are people who improve overtime. There are no specific exercises I am aware of, although modification of meals certainly keeps thing in use. sometime emg to the vocal cords are done to determine damage. It is controversal whether stimulation can aid in recovery.
Dr. Landolfi