This study aims to explore the reliability of using ultrasonography (US) for the assessment of swallowing function in patients with dysphagia. The study will recruit 80 patients and compare the findings with those obtained from fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), which serves as the gold standard.

This study will evaluate the reliability of using ultrasonography as a non-invasive tool for assessing swallowing function in patients with dysphagia. Participants will undergo US and FEES assessments to examine vocal cord function, swallowing reflex, pharyngeal contraction, aspiration/penetration, and stasis. The reliability, diagnostic accuracy, and inter-/intra-rater reliability will be analyzed to validate US as an effective alternative in clinical dysphagia assessment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 or older.
• Dysphagia patients referred for swallowing assessments.
• FOIS score between 2-6.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unconscious patients or those unable to follow instructions.
• Unstable vital signs.
• Acute infections or mechanical ventilation.

The study population includes adult patients aged 18 years and older who have been referred for dysphagia evaluation. Participants will have varying degrees of swallowing difficulty, stemming from conditions such as stroke, head and neck cancer, or neurodegenerative diseases. Eligible individuals will have a Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) score between 2 and 6. The population will be recruited from both outpatient and inpatient settings within the rehabilitation department of National Taiwan University Hospital. Patients must be conscious and able to follow instructions, ensuring accurate participation in both ultrasonography and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). Those with unstable vital signs, acute infections, mechanical ventilation, or cognitive impairments preventing effective participation will be excluded from the study.