Effects of 2 different swallowing exercise regimens during organ-preservation therapies for head and neck cancers on swallowing function
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2015
Abstract
Background. This study investigated the effects of 2 different swallowing exercise regimens performed during radiation therapy with/without chemotherapy on swallowing function. Methods. Fifty patients were recruited prospectively to 2 groups (the exercise group, n = 26 and the repetitive swallow group, n = 24). Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) scores and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placements were compared at posttreatment and at 3 months. Results. The exercise group eliminated significantly more PEG tubes at 3 months posttreatment compared to the swallow group (16% vs 50%). Among patients who received both radiation and chemotherapy, the exercise group had significantly less PEG tubes immediately posttreat-ment as well as 3 months posttreatment (35% and 10%), compared to the swallow group (69% and 50%). Conclusion. Findings indicate significant benefits of the exercise group's exercise regimen in reducing PEG dependence and oral intake difficulties.
Publication Source (Journal or Book title)
Head and Neck
First Page
162
Last Page
170
Recommended Citation
Virani, A., Kunduk, M., Fink, D., & McWhorter, A. (2015). Effects of 2 different swallowing exercise regimens during organ-preservation therapies for head and neck cancers on swallowing function. Head and Neck, 37 (2), 162-170. https://doi.org/10.1002/hed.23570