A member of Alliance Healthcare Group
A member of Alliance Healthcare Group
Botulinum toxin, often referred to as BTX, is a treatment used to help relax overactive muscles. In ENT care, BTX injections can be used to manage certain swallowing difficulties that are caused by abnormal muscle tightness in the throat or upper oesophagus.
When specific muscles do not relax properly during swallowing, food or liquid may have difficulty passing into the oesophagus. BTX injections can temporarily reduce this tightness and help improve the passage of food.
Swallowing involves a coordinated sequence of muscle movements. When one of the key muscles, particularly the cricopharyngeal muscle at the top of the oesophagus, remains too tight, patients may experience:
BTX is injected directly into the overactive muscle. Once the muscle relaxes, swallowing can become easier and more comfortable.
BTX injections may be considered for patients with swallowing difficulties related to:
Your specialist will usually recommend an evaluation that may include nasoendoscopy, swallowing assessment or imaging before advising on treatment suitability.
The specialist identifies the specific muscle and delivers a small amount of BTX to allow targeted relaxation.
Most patients return home the same day.
The relaxing effect of BTX is temporary. Benefits may last from several weeks to a few months. Some patients may require a repeat injection depending on the underlying condition and response to treatment.
Your specialist will review your swallowing function and discuss long term management plans.
BTX injections are generally safe when administered by trained specialists. Possible effects may include:
Your doctor will discuss potential risks based on your medical condition.
A local anaesthetic or sedation is often used. Most patients tolerate the procedure well.
Many patients resume their usual diet on the same day, although some may start with softer foods.
This varies by condition. Some patients need repeat injections while others benefit for a longer period.
The effect is temporary. It is used either as a stand alone treatment or as part of a broader swallowing rehabilitation plan.
Not all swallowing difficulties are due to muscle tightness. A proper assessment is needed to determine if BTX is appropriate.
