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The article discusses the role of pharyngeal and upper esophageal manometry in swallowing assessment in a dysphagia patient. The therapeutic implications of a speech-language therapist (SLP) misdiagnosing a source of residue in the esophagus are explored. Manometry is used by SLPs to explain the breakdown in swallowing physiology, to plan treatment, and also to determine cricopharyngeal dysfunction. Manometry is considered to be a tool that could add value to other measurement tools. INSETS: Case Example: The Use of Manometry in Assessment;Performing Manometry.

This article discusses an Internet based presentation entitled "Peristalsis of Peril: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Esophagus," which will occur on the Web site www.ASHA.org on August 28, 2008.

The author outlines medical diagnoses related to feeding and swallowing difficulties in patients with CHARGE syndrome. The first group are unable to take any nourishment by mouth without medical consent, the second group will have specialized diets determined by speech-language pathologists, and the third group demonstrate muscle weakness, most often in the jaw, lips, and tongue.