Which statement best describes the supraglottic swallow technique?

• A. Involves holding breath without any action on the vocal folds
• B. Is designed to reduce laryngeal closure during swallow
• C. Is used when there is enhanced airway protection
• D. Designed to achieve voluntary VF closure before and during the swallow

Answer: (D)

Supraglottic swallow works by creating a deliberate glottal seal to protect the airway before the bolus starts to move. The person takes a breath and deliberately holds it, which promotes vocal fold adduction and laryngeal closure. They then swallow while maintaining that closed position, so material is less likely to enter the airway. After the swallow, normal breathing resumes, and a cough may be used if any residue needs clearing. This technique is specifically aimed at enhancing airway protection for individuals at risk of penetration or aspiration.

The other statements don’t fit because they either imply no action on the vocal folds (which is essential to this method), suggest reducing laryngeal closure (the opposite of what supraglottic swallow aims to achieve), or imply it’s used when airway protection is already strong (the technique is used to improve protection when it’s not).