Investigating radiation exposure risks in children from swallowing tests
Excess Radiation Exposure in Infants and Children From Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies
This study is looking at how safe the Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) is for kids by checking if the radiation used in the test could increase cancer risks, so doctors can make better choices about diagnosing swallowing problems while keeping children safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11027300 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS), a key diagnostic tool for assessing swallowing function in children. The study aims to evaluate the excess cancer risks associated with radiation exposure from VFSS, which is crucial for making informed clinical decisions. By understanding these risks, the research seeks to balance the need for accurate diagnosis with the safety of young patients. The methodology involves analyzing current practices and their implications on patient safety and diagnostic accuracy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and children who require evaluation for swallowing disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require a Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study or those who are not at risk for swallowing disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer diagnostic practices for children undergoing swallowing assessments, minimizing their exposure to harmful radiation.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of VFSS is common, this research addresses a gap in understanding the associated cancer risks, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of South Carolina at Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bonilha, Heather Shaw — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Bonilha, Heather Shaw
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.