Enhancing Dysphagia Care: Introducing the Robust Esophageal Screening Test (REST) in TIMS MVP 5.2

Focusing on the assessment of dysfunction and interplay throughout the entire swallowing continuum can streamline next steps for the multidisciplinary dysphagia care team, improving patient outcomes (Gregor & Watts, 2023). Research indicates that over 60% of patients referred for a modified barium swallow study (MBSS) present with dysphagia involving an esophageal component (Gullung et al., 2012; Miles et al., 2015; Watts et al., 2019). Therefore, integrating esophageal visualization into MBSS performance is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment (Reedy et al., 2021).

The Robust Esophageal Screening Test (REST), a validated and standardized esophageal screening protocol, has proven essential in specifying and expediting next steps for multidisciplinary teams (Gregor, 2023). Watts et al. (2021) evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of the REST, which demonstrated a sensitivity of 83.7% and specificity of 73.7% for detecting esophageal abnormalities compared to formal esophageal examinations. A Quality Improvement Project (QIP) conducted at Mayo Clinic by Gregor & Watts (2023) demonstrated the feasibility of REST training for SLPs, revealing that the screening added less than five minutes to the study duration. Additionally, preliminary findings were effectively reviewed with patients in ten minutes or less.

In collaboration with Dr. Stephanie Watts and Jessica Gregor, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, we are excited to announce the integration of the REST into TIMS MVP 5.2. This integration delivers a standardized esophageal screening tool for SLPs, supporting the advancement of care standards and improving patient results in a wide range of clinical contexts. To learn more about the REST including development, validation, implementation, or certification, visit the Esophageal Co-Lab, available here.

Stay tuned for more updates on how TIMS MVP 5.2 is revolutionizing dysphagia diagnostics and care.