[General review of deglutition. Anatomy, physiology and principal pathological disorders. Diagnostic and therapeutic contribution of imaging].

Disorders of deglutition are a relatively frequent, serious, sometimes fatal symptom, representing a major cost for society. Their frequency is currently increasing in parallel with aging of the general population, the increased incidence of pharyngolaryngeal operations and the prolonged survival of neurological patients. A good understanding of the nervous control and anatomical structures as well as the physiology of deglutition is therefore important to decide which investigations and treatments should be proposed. The radiological investigation of a patient presenting with a disorder of deglutition must include the pharynx and the entire oesophagus, regardless of the presenting symptom, which may be experienced at a distance from the cause. The examination must be dynamic and standardized to assess the time and circumstances of onset the disorder, as well as its possible postural corrections. Finally, any examination of deglutition must be performed in both the upright and supine positions.