In November 2019, the lab introduced ASPEKT-C (Analysis of Swallowing Physiology: Events, Kinematics and Timing for Use in Clinical Practice) to assist clinicians in identifying the underlying mechanisms leading to impaired swallowing safety and efficiency on videofluoroscopic swallow studies. The 8 key parameters of swallowing included in ASPEKT-C have been chosen based on data suggesting that they are the parameters that most commonly explain penetration-aspiration and post-swallow residue in people with dysphagia. These parameters can be compared to reference values in healthy individuals.
NOTE: Small revisions are occasionally incorporated into ASPEKT-C based on our latest research findings. The most up to date versions can be accessed below.
| Resource | Description | File Link |
| Webinar (2021) | Overview of the revised ASPEKT-C presented at ASHA 2021. | Webinar |
| Instruction Manual | Step-by-step instructions for each of the worksheet parameters. | Using ImageJ (Português) (Español); or Using TIMS |
| Worksheet | Worksheet that will guide you through the quantitative measures. | English Português Español |
| Scoring Sheet | Scoring sheet to compare above worksheet against healthy references. | English Português Español | ASPEKT-C in TIMS MVP | How to use timing and tracing tools in TIMS MVP. | Tutorial |
| Treatment Planning Flowsheet V2.0 | ASPEKT-C treatment planning flowsheet. | Flowsheet |
| VFSS Best Practice Recommendations V2.0 | Evidence-based recommendations for VFSS. | Handout |
Disclaimer:
ASPEKT-C is intended for clinicians who are expected to perform and interpret videofluoroscopic swallow studies as part of their job. A basic knowledge of swallowing anatomy and physiology is required as foundational knowledge.
We recognize that the professionals who provide or who have regulatory privileges to provide clinical dysphagia services differ in various jurisdictions both within North America and internationally. It is not our place to become involved in debates regarding professional scopes of practice and the resources we offer are not intended to be leveraged in such debates. Therefore, the only requirement for enrolling in ASPEKT-C are that the person is expected to perform and interpret videofluoroscopic swallow studies as part of their job.
Still have questions?
Send us an email at TRI-SwallowingLab@uhn.ca