The ASPEKT-C Method (for Clinical Practice)

In November 2019, the lab introduced the ASPEKT-C Method (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 the ASPEKT-C Method 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 the ASPEKT-C Method based on our latest research findings. The most up to date versions can be accessed below.

ResourceDescriptionFile Link
Webinar (2021)Overview of the revised ASPEKT-C Method as presented at ASHA 2021. Webinar
Instruction Manual V3.0Step-by-step instructions for each of the worksheet parameters.Using ImageJ; or Using TIMS DICOM
Worksheet V3.2Worksheet that will guide you through the quantitative measures. Worksheet
Scoring Sheet V3.1Scoring sheet to compare above worksheet against healthy references. Scoring Sheet
Treatment Planning Flowsheet V2.0ASPEKT-C treatment planning flowsheet. Flowsheet
VFSS Best Practice Recommendations V2.0Evidence-based recommendations for VFSS.Handout

Still have questions?

Send us an email at TRI-SwallowingLab@uhn.ca