Does pulse oximetry reliably detect aspiration in dysphagic stroke patients?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to examine the value of pulse oximetry in the diagnosis of aspiration by comparing it with the gold standard, videofluoroscopy, by use of a prospective, controlled, single-blind study design. METHODS: Pulse oximetry was performed simultaneously with videofluoroscopy in 54 consecutive dysphagic stroke patients. Oxygen saturation measurements were taken before the video-fluoroscopic examination (baseline), on swallowing and continuously for 2 minutes after swallowing, and 10 minutes later. RESULTS: Pulse oximetry reliably predicted aspiration or lack of it in 81.5% of cases. The predictive value of the test was low in patients aged > or = 65 years and possibly those with chronic lung disease. One smoker also had a false-negative pulse oximetry result, ie, normal oxygen saturation despite radiological evidence of aspiration. CONCLUSIONS: Pulse oximetry is a reliable method of diagnosis of aspiration in most dysphagic patients. However, careful interpretation of pulse oximetry data is necessary in older subjects, possibly those with chronic pulmonary disease, and smokers. The method is noninvasive, simple, and quick, and can be used routinely in the clinical assessment of dysphagic patients.