The Impact of Ultrasound-guided Botulinum Toxin Injection on Cricopharyngeal Muscle Dysfunction Under Balloon Localization
Ultrasound-guided injection is a visual, convenient, and radiation-free technique that allows real-time observation of the needle insertion process and drug injection location. The combination with a balloon for fixation further enhances the precision of the injection. In this study, we employed ultrasound-guided injection combined with balloon localization for cricopharyngeal muscle botulinum toxin injection treatment and conducted clinical observations.
• Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) confirming incomplete/opening dysfunction of the cricopharyngeal muscle;
• No significant improvement in swallowing function after standardized rehabilitation treatment for more than 2 weeks (unchanged or decreased FOIS);
• Presence of swallowing initiation, with VFSS showing that the upward movement of the hyoid bone during swallowing is greater than half the height of the C3 vertebral body;
• Stable vital signs, alert consciousness, and cooperation with treatment;