A swallow study isn’t something most people expect to need—but when certain health conditions arise, having convenient access to this specialized service close to home matters. As part of its continued commitment to expanding local care, Sleepy Eye Medical Center (SEMC) now offers swallow study services, giving patients greater access to specialized diagnostics without the need to travel.
To provide this service locally, SEMC uses advanced imaging technology known as Dynamic Digital Radiography (DDR) from Konica Minolta. Unlike traditional imaging, DDR captures a rapid series of low-dose X-ray images to create a real-time, moving view of how the body functions—in this case, how a patient swallows. The technology provides clear, detailed visualization while using less radiation and allowing patients to remain in a natural, upright position. Images are captured digitally and securely shared with radiology specialists through teleradiology, enabling expert interpretation without requiring a radiologist to be onsite.
The addition of swallow study services reflects thoughtful planning and a commitment to keeping pace with advancing technology. According to Radiology Manager Megan Goette, the project began with the need to replace aging equipment and quickly evolved into an opportunity to expand services. After evaluating options and visiting a facility already using the technology, the team saw firsthand how Dynamic Digital Radiography (DDR) could enhance patient care.
“We were particularly excited that DDR technology would expand our diagnostic capabilities, allowing us to perform studies that were not previously possible,” said Goette. “We are very pleased to be able to provide our patients with access to this new technology.”
Since its implementation in late 2025, the system has already proven its value. Early swallow studies have demonstrated strong image quality, lower radiation exposure, and an efficient process for sharing images with offsite radiologists for timely interpretation.
For patients, the greatest impact is the level of insight this technology provides. Swallow studies are conducted in collaboration with SEMC’s Speech Therapy Program, helping identify and treat swallowing disorders with greater precision. Speech-Language Pathologist Kelsie Kosak, M.S., SLP explains that the ability to view swallowing in real time is a significant advancement in care.
“This technology allows us to actually see how a patient is swallowing, providing insight we simply can’t get from a bedside evaluation alone,” said Kosak. “It leads to more accurate diagnosis, more targeted treatment, and ultimately better outcomes for our patients.”
Swallow studies are often recommended for patients experiencing difficulty swallowing, coughing or choking while eating or drinking, or other related concerns. By combining advanced imaging with clinical expertise, the care team can develop more personalized treatment plans and help patients better understand their condition.
Kosak notes that early experiences with the new service have been very positive, with studies providing clear diagnostic information that directly supports patient care decisions. “It also helps patients see and understand what’s happening, which can make a meaningful difference in their engagement and progress,” she said.
Swallow studies are offered by provider referral and are part of a coordinated care process. Patients experiencing difficulty swallowing typically begin with an evaluation by a speech-language pathologist, who may recommend a swallow study to the patient’s primary care provider. If appropriate, the provider then places a referral. Following the study, patients may continue working with speech therapy for treatment and follow-up care.
In addition to swallowing evaluations, Speech-Language Pathologist Kelsie Kosak provides care for patients of all ages with a wide range of communication and feeding needs, including speech and language delays, expressive and receptive language disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, speech sound disorders, stuttering, and feeding or swallowing difficulties. To better meet growing community demand, speech therapy services at SEMC will expand to full-time availability this summer and beyond.
As SEMC continues to invest in technology and services, the addition of swallow studies reflects a broader commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the community—ensuring patients have access to high-quality, specialized care close to home.