MBSImP Calibration Guide, Completed latest Updated 2025/26.

MBSImP Calibration Guide

Component #1 – Lip Closure
What to Score:
●​ Patient’s ability to seal the bolus within the anterior oral cavity
Where to Score:
●​ Score the presence & location of contrast material (barium) seen between or outside the
lips on the lateral view
When to Score:
●​ At any point during the swallow
Nuances:
●​ If lips are not completely in frame, score what can be seen & note that the exam was
limited
●​ Do not confuse soft tissue density with contrast material (barium)
●​ If contrast material (barium) is observed on the upper lip, this is not related to mode of
administration (e.g., cup sip) and is NOT considered impairment

ORAL Impairment:
-​ Judge at any point during the swallow
●​ 0 = No labial escape
●​ 1 = Interlabial escape; no progression to anterior lip
●​ 2 = Escape from interlabial space or lateral juncture; no extension beyond vermillion
border
●​ 3 = Escape progressing to mid-chin
●​ 4 = Escape beyond mid-chin; Profuse escape between open lips

,
,
, Component #2 – Tongue Control During Bolus Hold
What to Score:
●​ Patient’s ability to seal the tongue to the hard & soft palate
Where to Score:
●​ Oral cavity
●​ Tongue and palatal seal; anteriorly, posteriorly, & laterally