[Dysphagia] VitalStim

[eripley at yahoo.com (Irene Campbell-Taylor)]

Today, on Mescape, the following was posted:

Carotid Dissection Associated With a Handheld Electric Massager 

Arthur C. Grant, MD, PHD; Norman Wang, MD




The extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) is susceptible to injury and dissection from external shear forces applied to the neck. Traumatic ICA dissection usually occurs in the setting of a sudden, high amplitude force causing significant distortion of surrounding soft tissues. Weaker, repetitive forces applied for longer intervals may also pose a risk for ICA dissection.

 
A search of the Web shows that ENS devices fall into the general category of ?electric massagers.? Great care is required to avoid, absolutely, any stimulation of the carotids, not easy to do without detailed anatomical knowledge and lengthy practice. The external carotid is relatively easy to locate but this does not necessarily, in all individuals, provide information as to the location of the internal carotid.  Occupational Therapists and Physical therapist who regularly use these and similar devices, usually do gross anatomy as part of their training and are well practised in locating various points on the human form. Without this, or other significant medical training, I would be very cautious about the use of external stimulation of the neck.
Irene.


Dr I Campbell-Taylor
Clinical Neuroscientist
Exclusive Distributor:
www.interactivetherapy.com