Causes And Risk Factors For Aspiration

Throat Surgery

An individual who undergoes certain surgical procedures performed on their throat or neck may experience post-surgical aspiration. There are numerous reasons for an individual to undergo surgery on their neck and throat, including the removal of the tonsils, benign or malignant growth removal, cyst removal, thyroid gland removal, repair of a fissure in the esophagus, and procedures to correct structural abnormalities in the throat and neck. An individual who has surgery on their neck and throat can experience traumatic damage to the nerves and muscles in this region. Damage to the nerves or muscles on a temporary or permanent basis due to a surgical procedure can cause problems with the carefully coordinated process required for individuals to be able to swallow properly. An individual who cannot swallow correctly due to a prior surgical procedure can experience aspiration of food and particles into their lungs.