Dysphagia, oral phase
ICD-10 R13.11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of dysphagia, oral phase.
Dysphagia, oral phase, refers to difficulty in the oral phase of swallowing, which includes the processes of preparing food in the mouth and moving it to the back of the throat for swallowing. Symptoms may include difficulty chewing, inability to form a bolus, drooling, and a sensation of food sticking in the mouth. Patients may also experience coughing or choking during meals, which can lead to aspiration and subsequent respiratory complications. This condition can arise from various causes, including neurological disorders (such as stroke or Parkinson's disease), muscular disorders (like myasthenia gravis), structural abnormalities (such as tumors or strictures), and certain medications that affect muscle function. A thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed history and physical examination, is essential for diagnosis, often supplemented by imaging studies or swallowing assessments to determine the underlying cause and severity of dysphagia.
Detailed patient history, including onset, duration, and associated symptoms of dysphagia.
Patients presenting with unexplained weight loss, recurrent aspiration pneumonia, or neurological symptoms.
Consideration of comorbidities that may affect swallowing, such as diabetes or neurological disorders.
Acute assessment of airway protection and immediate interventions if aspiration is suspected.
Patients with sudden onset dysphagia following a stroke or head injury.
Rapid evaluation of airway status and potential need for advanced imaging or interventions.
Used when assessing swallowing difficulties in patients with dysphagia.
Document the rationale for the study and findings.
Neurology and gastroenterology may require specific protocols for swallowing assessments.
Oral phase dysphagia involves difficulty in the preparation and movement of food in the mouth, while pharyngeal phase dysphagia pertains to issues occurring after the food has been moved to the back of the throat, affecting the swallowing reflex.
