The Effect Of Gender And Bolus Type On Measurements Of Hyolaryngeal Muscular Activity

Abstract

Objective: To measure the effect of Gender and Bolus Condition on Hyolaryngeal Muscular Activity in young healthy adults (ages 18-25) using Surface Electromyography (sEMG). Method: 20 young healthy adult participants (10 male & 10 female) between the ages of 18-25 were recruited for this study. Dependent variables consisted of Amplitude and Duration measurements obtained from sEMG signals. sEMG signals were acquired using the Swallowing Signals Lab workstation model (Kaypentax, Montvale, NJ), set up in a similar method as Crary, Carnaby, and Groher (2006). Disposable self-adhesive electrode patches that consisted of three electrodes were placed 1 cm below the inferior rim of the mental protuberance of the mandible. This placement ensured that electrodes were over the laryngeal elevator muscles. Participants swallowed each bolus consistency (based on the National Dysphagia Diet levels 1 & 3) five times. Results: This study found Gender had no effect on Duration and Amplitude in young healthy adults (ages 18-25), and Gender X Bolus Condition had no effect on Duration and Amplitude as well. Different bolus Consistencies did effect swallow Amplitude, but not Duration of the swallow. Conclusions: The significant effect on Amplitude from different bolus types most likely resulted from individuals utilizing greater muscular contraction force when swallowing solid foods. This study adds to the current knowledge base and helps us to better understand how Gender and Bolus Types influence the Duration and Amplitude of hyolaryngeal muscle activity in young healthy males and females.