Predictors and Outcomes among Patients with Early Swallow Dysfunction after Lung Transplantation

Development of swallow dysfunction is common after LT surgery. While mild dysphagia, as reflected by the finding of laryngeal penetration, is the most common abnormality, a significant proportion of patients demonstrate frank aspiration. None of the pre-transplant or peri-transplant variables reliably predict post-LT aspiration risk. Despite similar morbidity outcomes early on, patients with aspiration may experience worse one-year survival.