The swallowing signal can be measured by submental MMG.

Type of the swallowing (saliva, liquid, solid food) can modify the swallowing signal.

Parameters (age, gender and BMI) influence the timing of the swallowing signal.

The swallowing signature in an MMG signal can be characterized.

currently, only tracheostomy is available for people who have had a total laryngectomy, and no solution exist for people with swallowing disorders. Yet, muscles activity produces measurable vibrations, known as MechanoMyoGraphy (MMG), and is regarded as the mechanical counterpart of electromyography. Besides, we have already shown the possibility to control an artificial urinary sphincter with the MMG signal measured in the abdomen [1]. Therefore, the goal of this long-term work is to use this method to allow to predict a deglutition and command an active artificial larynx. So, the present paper analyses the MMG signal acquired in the submental area, which contains anterior suprahyoid (SH) muscles and the floor of the tongue. Indeed, one function of SH muscles is to support the tongue, which in turn is highly involved in the propulsive phase of swallowing and follow a relatively stereotypical pattern. Lastly, the localization of the bolus is of prime interest to defines the ultimate and available detection times. Thus, the swallowing sound was also recorded on the throat, as it has been shown to allow to locate the bolus.

we recorded MMG and swallowing sound signals with tow accelerometers in submental area and the throat of 39 people. Each participant completed water, saliva and solid food swallow, seated on a chair, and was asked to remain still. Four benchmarks were place in the signals to differentiate swallowing phases and signal's components and timings. We also looked for any influence of age, height and weight in corresponding timings.

a characteristic pattern has been registered in most of recordings. The benchmarks allowed to display a minimum average available time of 0.324 sec (0.125–0.786). Age and weight had a noticeable impact on the timings.

these findings hint toward the possible detection of swallowing via MMG signals from submental area.

Mechanomyography

Swallowing signal

Active implantable medical device

Submental

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