Speech therapy is of some benefit. Severe cases may resort to writing, or using speech synthesizers. Innervated by vagi and myenteric plexus. Therapy - pureed diet. Swallowing rehabilitation by speech pathologist Involuntary phase Mechanical obstruction Cancer of pharynx or base of tongue Usually seen on mirror exam, but endoscopy required to rule out.
Diagnosis is based on biopsy.
Usually squamous carcinoma Therapy - see section on Head and Neck Cancer Parapharyngeal or retropharyngeal mass Mucosal bulge seen on physical exam. X-rays or CT used to evaluate, plus angiography if vascular mass is suspected. Most common etiologies-deep lobe parotid tumors, neurogenic tumors and glomus tumors. Therapy - speech therapy sometimes helpful. Palatal lift prosthesis or obturator mechanically maintains closure.