Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS)

The PAS is an 8-point scale used to assess the degree of airway invasion during swallowing. It evaluates whether food, liquid, or saliva enters the airway (penetration) and whether it passes below the vocal cords (aspiration), as well as the body’s ability to clear it.

In clinical settings, the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) helps:

• Identify airway invasion patterns.
• Determine the severity of swallowing dysfunction.
• Guide treatment plans, including diet modifications and therapeutic strategies.

No, the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) is one component of a comprehensive swallowing evaluation. It must be interpreted alongside other clinical findings and patient history.