[Dysphagia] odynophagia

[Pingalo at aol.com (Pingalo@aol.com)]

Case hx:  
83 y/o male w/preop dx of  L trigeminal nerve neuralgia, underwent 
microvascular decompression of left fifth nerve on 6/29/04. 
Recent MRI = small recent infarct near pons which may involve the sensory 
nucleus of
the left 5th cranial nerve. also small left superior cerebral artery infarct.
MBS showed mild delay, reduced tongue base retraction and pharyngeal 
contraction.
No aspiration. Flash penetration of thin liquids. Increased difficulty with 
solids.
This gentleman is now experiencing pain with swallowing which he rates as a 4 
on a 1-10 scale, even when managing saliva. 
Would welcome any insights as to cause of odynophagia, recommendations.
Thanks in advance for your replys.       Carol