Learn about Pharyngogram Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Pharyngogram and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Pharyngogram

A pharyngogram, also known as a barium swallow or videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), is a specialized X-ray imaging procedure performed by a radiologist to evaluate the structure and function of the pharynx (throat) and upper esophagus during swallowing. The patient swallows a barium-based contrast liquid or paste, which coats the throat and makes it clearly visible on real-time X-ray video (fluoroscopy). This dynamic study allows the radiologist to assess how effectively food and liquid move from the mouth to the esophagus, identifying any abnormalities in swallowing mechanics, structural defects, or obstructions. It is a crucial diagnostic tool for evaluating dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), aspiration risk, and various throat disorders, providing essential information for safe and effective treatment planning.

Key Highlights

    Provides real-time, dynamic visualization of the swallowing process.Non-invasive and generally well-tolerated by patients.Helps identify the precise cause and location of swallowing difficulties (dysphagia).Essential for evaluating the risk of aspiration (food/liquid entering the lungs).Guides treatment plans, including dietary modifications and therapy strategies.No radiation remains in the body after the procedure./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Persistent difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) with solids or liquids.
  • Unexplained coughing or choking during or after eating/drinking.
  • Sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest.
  • Recurrent pneumonia or lung infections suggesting possible aspiration.
  • Evaluation following a stroke, neurological disorder, or head/neck surgery.
  • Suspected structural abnormalities like strictures, diverticula, or tumors in the pharynx.
  • Assessment of swallowing function before or after radiation therapy for head/neck cancer.

How to prepare

  • You may be asked to fast (no food or drink) for a few hours before the exam.
  • Inform your doctor and radiologist about all medications, allergies (especially to barium or iodine), and any possibility of pregnancy.
  • Remove dentures, jewelry, or any metal objects from the head and neck area.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing; you may be given a hospital gown.
  • A brief explanation of the procedure and what will be asked of you will be provided.

Risks & possible complications

  • Allergic reaction to the barium contrast material (rare).
  • Temporary constipation or white-colored stools from the barium.
  • Minor risk of barium aspiration into the lungs, which is carefully monitored.
  • Exposure to a low dose of ionizing radiation; the benefit of diagnosis outweighs this minimal risk.
  • Discomfort or gagging sensation when swallowing the barium mixture.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • You can resume normal activities and diet immediately after the procedure.
  • Drink plenty of water to help flush the barium from your system and prevent constipation.
  • Your stools may appear white or light-colored for 1-2 days; this is normal.
  • Contact your doctor if you experience severe constipation, abdominal pain, or fever.
  • A radiologist will analyze the images and send a detailed report to your referring doctor, who will discuss the results and next steps with you.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient procedure)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 0 days (immediate)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering pharyngogram in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for pharyngogram compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 28 – USD 88 0 days (outpatient procedure) ~ 0 days (immediate) Know More
Turkey USD 205 – USD 656 0 days (outpatient procedure) ~ 0 days (immediate) Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Rahul Iyer, a 42-year-old software engineer...

Rahul Iyer, a 42-year-old software engineer and father of two, had been struggling for months with a persistent feeling of food 'sticking' in his throat, occasional choking spells during meals, and unexplained weight loss. His primary care physician, concerned about a possible swallowing disorder (dysphagia), referred him to a gastroenterologist. After a normal endoscopy, the gastroenterologist recommended a Pharyngogram (a modified barium swallow study) to dynamically visualize the function of his throat muscles during swallowing. During the procedure, Rahul stood before an X-ray machine and swallowed different consistencies of barium-coated food and liquid. He found the thick, chalky barium unpleasant but manageable. The radiologist observed and recorded the entire process in real-time. The Pharyngogram revealed a subtle but significant delay in his pharyngeal swallow reflex, a condition called cricopharyngeal dysfunction. Emotionally, Rahul was anxious beforehand, fearing a serious diagnosis like cancer. After the procedure, he felt immense relief at having a clear, treatable answer. The diagnosis led to a referral for swallowing therapy, and with targeted exercises, his symptoms improved dramatically, allowing him to enjoy meals with his family again without fear.

Radiologists for Pharyngogram

Explore experienced radiologists who regularly perform pharyngogram and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Sanjeev J. Mudakavi
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 2000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Millers Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Nagesh R
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 2000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Millers Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sriram Patwari
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Aarushi Garg
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 900
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Delhi

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Dr. Shankhneel Singh
  • 5 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ranchi, Ranchi

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Dr. Rajesh Lavakumar
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore

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Dr. Syed Tauqueer Fazal
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon

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Dr. Madhu Kumar S B
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Radiologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 600
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated