AMA Criteria for Impairment Associated with Dysfunction of the Glossopharyngeal, Vagus and/or Hypoglossal Nerves (Cranial Nerves IX, X, XII)

The level of impairment associated with a disorder of the glossopharyngeal, vagus or hypoglossal nerve can be estimated based on the AMA criteria.

Parameters:

(1) dysarthria, dystonia or dysphagia

(2) difficulty swallowing

Dysarthria, Dystonia, Dysphagia	Difficulty Swallowing	Percent Whole Person Impairment
none	normal	0%
mild	chokes on liquids or semisolid foods	1 - 14%
moderate	hoarseness, nasal regurgitation, or aspiration on liquids or semisolid food	15 – 39%
severe	unable to handle oral secretions without choking, requires assistance and suctioning	40 - 60%

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