Abstract: ObjectiveTo explore the effect of Vitalstim neuromuscular electrical stimulation on neurogenic swallowing dysfunction. Methods82 patients were divided into three groups: group A received swallowing behavior therapy, group B received Vitalstim neuromuscular electrical stimulation, group C received Vitalstim neuromuscular electrical stimulation and swallowing behavior therapy, 10 times as one course. ResultsTotal efficiency was 72.7% for group A, 82.6% for group B, and 94.5% for group C, after 1～2 courses. Scores of videofluorocopic swallowing study (VFSS) was significantly higher in group C than in the other groups (P=0.000). ConclusionVitalstim neuromuscular electrical stimulation on the basis of swallowing behavior therapy can improve swallowing function of neurogenic dysphagia, especially in pseudobulbar palsy.

Key words: Vitalstim neuromuscular electrical stimulation, neurogenic dysphagia, swallowing behavior therapy