Effects of the Chin-Tuck Maneuver on Anatomical Changes and Angles during Swallowing: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed at providing a critical review of the overall benefits of the chin-tuck maneuver through a systematic review of its effects when used in the treatment of dysphagia, as well as to provide basic data for a comparative analysis in future studies. Methods: To identify academic papers on the chin-tuck maneuver published from January 2000 to January 2021, a literature search on three databases was performed using keywords, including chin-tuck, dysphagia, and head flexion. Out of the 712 related papers identified, the methodological characteristics and results of 12 selected studies were reviewed. Results: Nine of the 12 studies found that the chin-tuck position not only helped in the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) but also reduced pharyngeal residues and prevented aspiration and penetration. In addition, three studies analyzed the position of the neck flexion angle and the changing angle when performing the chin-tuck maneuver. Conclusion: This shows that the chin-tuck maneuver is an effective strategy in the treatment of dysphagia. In future studies, further investigation of the posture, angles, and effects of the chin-tuck maneuver, could help identify additional benefits of this treatment. (JKDS 2022;12:1-13

Chin-tuck assistant system (CAS)—A novel method using auditory feedback for postural maintenance in a chin-tuck maneuver: A randomized trial

“…[ 13 ] In addition, the neck flexion angle during the chin-tuck is not easily and accurately quantified, leading to variability in practice and in research. [ 14 , 15 ] There may also be limitations causing deviations from the correct chin-tuck posture due to the lack of accurate anatomical definitions, methods, and related data. [ 16 ] Various methods have been reported to solve these problems, [ 17 , 18 ] and in 2021, a device to help maintain the chin-tuck posture using auditory feedback was first introduced by Oh et al [ 19 ] Called the Chin-tuck Assistance System (CAS), this device was designed to induce safe swallowing by helping to maintain the chin-tuck posture.…”