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Agarwal K, Kumar P, S N, Kumar P, Garg A, Nigam J, N S S. Feasibility of Achieving Dose Constraints for Dysphagia Aspiration-Related Structures and Its Clinical Significance in Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy Planning of Head and Neck Cancer. Cureus 2024; 16:e53769. [PMID: 38465172 PMCID: PMC10922219 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dysphagia is commonly seen in patients with head and neck cancers after undergoing chemoradiotherapy and is often under-reported and also not given clinical importance. The quality of life of the patients can be significantly improved if the required dose constraints to the dysphagia aspiration-related structures (DARS) are achieved. The present study was conducted in order to determine the feasibility of achieving the dose constraints to DARS between the standard intensity-modulated radiotherapy (st-IMRT) arm and the dysphagia-optimized IMRT (do-IMRT) arm. Material and methods Sixty patients with head and neck cancer were recruited and randomized into two groups: In one group called the st-IMRT, constraints were not given to DARS, and in the other group called the do-IMRT, constraints were given to DARS. Treatment was given in the form of chemoradiation with a dose of 70 Gy in 35 fractions by IMRT technique, over seven weeks, 2 Gy per fraction along with weekly concurrent Cisplatin (35 mg/m2) in both the groups. Step and shoot IMRT setup was used for planning, and the system used for planning was Eclipse 13.6 (Varian Medical System, Inc., Palo Alto, CA, US); progressive resolution optimizer algorithm was used for optimization, and Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm algorithm was used for dose calculation. Truebeam was used for treatment delivery. DARS dosimetric parameters assessed were Dmean, V30, V50, V60, V70, D50, and D80. Radiation-induced toxicities to the skin, mucosa, larynx, salivary gland, and dysphagia and hematological toxicities were assessed in between both the groups during and after radiotherapy up to six months based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Effects v5.0. p-values were calculated using the unpaired T-test. Results In the cohort of 60 patients with head and neck cancers, 95% were males. Dosimetric parameters of the planning target volume (PTV) were compared but were not found to be significant. In the dosimetry of the organs at risk, a p-value of some structures was found to be significant although the doses received were well within the tolerable limits in both arms. DARS dosimetry V60 and V70 of the inferior constrictor muscle was found to be statistically significant (p=0.01 and 0.008, respectively). V60 and V70 of larynx were also statistically significant (p=0.009 and 0.000, respectively). V70 and D50 of cricopharyngeus were found to be statistically significant (p=0.01 and 0.03, respectively), V30 and V60 for combined pharyngeal constrictor muscles were found to be statistically significant (p=0.02 and 0.01), and lastly, V60 for combined DARS was also significant (p=0.004). Post-treatment 33.3% of patients in the st-IMRT arm required Ryle's tube placement. No grade 4 toxicities were seen in either arm regarding hematological toxicities, acute or chronic radiation-induced toxicities. In site-wise comparison of doses, the p-value was not found to be significant in patients with oropharyngeal and oral cavity carcinomas but was found to be statistically significant in the larynx and hypopharynx subsites. Conclusion The feasibility of achieving dose constraints to the DARS was seen in cases of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers where the constrictor muscles were at a distance from the PTV. Further, the feasibility of achieving dose constraints may be seen in lower-dose prescriptions either in postoperative cases or in low-risk clinical target volume nodal volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karishma Agarwal
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
| | - Piyush Kumar
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
| | - Navitha S
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
| | - Pavan Kumar
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
| | - Ayush Garg
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
| | - Jitendra Nigam
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
| | - Silambarasan N S
- Radiation Oncology, SRMS (Shri Ram Murti Smarak) Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, IND
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Investigation of the Effect of Radiotherapy Dose on Chewing and Swallowing Structures in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated with Concomitant Chemoradiotherapy. Dysphagia 2022; 37:1400-1413. [PMID: 35075541 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-021-10398-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is a treatment method that is used in the treatment of head and neck cancers. Impairment of chewing and swallowing functions in the early and late periods of radiotherapy is frequent. Therefore, revealing the dose-effect relationship is important. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the dose-effect relationship between chewing and swallowing structures objectively via a standardized videofluoroscopy protocol. The study included 35 participants treated with chemo-IMRT. A videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) was performed before IMRT, and 3 and 6 months after IMRT. VFSS results were scored according to the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) and the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS). Maximum interincisor mouth opening, body mass index (BMI), and Functional Oral Intake Scale levels were determined in these cases. The quality of life of participants was evaluated. There was a significant increase in PAS and MBSImP scores and a significant decrease in BMI scores of the patients after treatment. Xerotomy and sticky saliva complaints increased after treatment. The dose to the mastication muscles (> 40 Gy) and the temporomandibular joint (> 46 Gy) were found to be associated with a decrease in BMI; the dose to the superior pharyngeal constructor muscle (> 58 Gy) was found to be associated with pharyngeal stripping wave. The presence of aspiration was associated with the inferior pharyngeal constructor muscle, glottic larynx, supraglottic larynx, and upper esophageal sphincter. Important findings to emerge from this study include detected toxic dose limits. These findings may guide physicians to minimize the side effects of IMRT.
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Liou HH, Tsai SW, Hsieh MHC, Chen YJ, Hsiao JR, Huang CC, Ou CY, Chang CC, Lee WT, Tsai ST, Hung DSY. Evaluation of Objective and Subjective Swallowing Outcomes in Patients with Dysphagia Treated for Head and Neck Cancer. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030692. [PMID: 35160142 PMCID: PMC8836568 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated objective and subjective swallowing function outcomes in patients with dysphagia treated for head and neck cancer (HNC) and identified risk factors for poor swallowing outcomes. Patients undergoing videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS) between January 2016 and March 2021 were divided into four groups according to primary tumor sites; post-treatment dysphagia was assessed. The penetration–aspiration scale (PAS) and bolus residue scale (BRS) were used to objectively assess swallowing function through VFSS. The Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) was used for subjective analyses of swallowing statuses. To account for potential confounding, important covariates were adjusted for in logistic regression models. Oropharyngeal tumors were significantly more likely to have poor PAS and BRS scores than oral cavity tumors, and the patients with nasopharyngeal tumors were significantly less likely to have poor FOIS scores. Old age, having multiple HNCs, and a history of radiotherapy were associated with an increased odds of poor PAS scores (for all types of swallows), poor BRS scores (for semiliquid and solid swallows), and poor FOIS scores, respectively. This indicates using only subjective assessments may not allow for accurate evaluations of swallowing function in patients treated for HNC. Using both objective and subjective assessments may allow for comprehensive evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Hao Liou
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Shu-Wei Tsai
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Miyuki Hsing-Chun Hsieh
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Jen Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Jenn-Ren Hsiao
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Cheng-Chih Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Chun-Yen Ou
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Chan-Chi Chang
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Wei-Ting Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - Sen-Tien Tsai
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
| | - David Shang-Yu Hung
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan; (H.-H.L.); (S.-W.T.); (Y.-J.C.); (J.-R.H.); (C.-C.H.); (C.-Y.O.); (C.-C.C.); (W.-T.L.); (S.-T.T.)
- Correspondence:
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Foley J, Ward EC, Burns CL, Nund RL, Wishart L, Graham N, Patterson C, Ashley A, Fink J, Tiavaasue E, Comben W. Speech pathology service enhancement for people with head and neck cancer living in rural areas: Using a concept mapping approach to inform service change. Head Neck 2021; 43:3504-3521. [PMID: 34477267 DOI: 10.1002/hed.26850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Speech pathology (SP) services provide swallowing and communication intervention to people with head and neck cancer (HNC) across the continuum of care. However, difficulties exist with access and delivery of services in rural areas. The study aim was to identify actionable goals for SP change, utilizing a concept mapping approach. METHODS Eleven SP staff from two regional/remote services completed the concept mapping process. Multivariate analysis and multidimensional scaling were used to develop a final set of prioritized goals for change. RESULTS Between the two participating health services, 30 actionable goals were identified within the "green-zone" on the go-zone graph of importance and changeability. Among the most highly rated areas for change was the need to deliver and receive more support for training, mentoring, and supervision to consolidate skills. CONCLUSIONS This methodology enabled identification of prioritized, actionable changes to improve SP services for people with HNC living in regional/remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Foley
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Speech Pathology Department, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Clare L Burns
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Speech Pathology Department, The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Nund
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Laurelie Wishart
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre of Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicky Graham
- Speech Pathology Department, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Wondai Hospital, Wondai, Queensland, Australia
| | - Corey Patterson
- Speech Pathology Department, The Townsville University Hospital, The Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Amy Ashley
- Speech Pathology Department, The Townsville University Hospital, The Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Julie Fink
- Speech Pathology Department, The Townsville University Hospital, The Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emily Tiavaasue
- Speech Pathology Department, The Mount Isa Hospital, North West Hospital and Health Service, Mount Isa, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wendy Comben
- Speech Pathology Department, The Townsville University Hospital, The Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
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Frowen J, Hughes R, Kiss N. Introduction of a speech-language pathology assistant role for swallow screening in a head and neck radiotherapy clinic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2021; 23:441-451. [PMID: 32862705 DOI: 10.1080/17549507.2020.1800818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Optimal care suggests that all moderate-high risk head and neck (H&N) cancer patients should receive speech pathology assessment, education and management when commencing radiotherapy. However this is not always feasible due to high patient numbers and limited staffing. The aim of this study was to investigate the implementation of a speech-language pathology assistant (SLP-A) role for swallowing screening and education in a multidisciplinary H&N treatment clinic. METHOD A detailed model of care and training module were developed to up-skill the SLP-A in the screening and education to be undertaken. A pre-test post-test design compared outcomes in two separate groups prior to and following SLP-A role implementation. Outcomes included: optimal care compliance, speech-language pathology time spent with complex patients, swallowing-related admissions and patient satisfaction. RESULT Twenty-six patients were included pre-implementation and 35 post-implementation, with 16 (46%) patients receiving SLP-A screening/education post-implementation. The proportion of eligible patients seen by speech-language pathology pre-implementation was 62%, compared to 94% seen by speech-language pathology or SLP-A post-implementation (p = 0.002). There was a (non-significant) increase in speech-language pathology time spent with complex patients post-implementation (total minutes per patient: mean 252, SD = 144 vs. 279, SD = 115). There was no increase in swallowing-related admissions, and a (non-significant) increase in patient satisfaction post-implementation, indicating no compromise to patient safety or satisfaction. CONCLUSION Implementing a speech-language pathology assistant role for screening patients within the H&N treatment clinic allowed delivery of optimal care and increased time for speech-language pathologists to spend with complex patients, without compromising patient safety or satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqui Frowen
- Nutrition and Speech Pathology Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rhys Hughes
- Nutrition and Speech Pathology Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicole Kiss
- Geelong, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
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Harrowfield J, Isenring E, Kiss N, Laing E, Lipson-Smith R, Britton B. The Impact of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OPSCC) on Nutritional Outcomes. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020514. [PMID: 33557340 PMCID: PMC7916068 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients undergoing (chemo) radiotherapy for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) are at high risk of malnutrition during and after treatment. Malnutrition can lead to poor tolerance to treatment, treatment interruptions, poor quality of life (QOL) and potentially reduced survival rate. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is now known as the major cause of OPSCC. However, research regarding its effect on nutritional outcomes is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between HPV status and nutritional outcomes, including malnutrition and weight loss during and after patients’ (chemo) radiotherapy treatment for OPSCC. Methods: This was a longitudinal cohort study comparing the nutritional outcomes of HPV-positive and negative OPSCC patients undergoing (chemo) radiotherapy. The primary outcome was nutritional status as measured using the Patient Generated-Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA). Secondary outcomes included loss of weight, depression, QOL and adverse events. Results: Although HPV-positive were less likely to be malnourished according to PG-SGA at the beginning of treatment, we found that the difference between malnutrition rates in response to treatment was not significantly different over the course of radiotherapy and 3 months post treatment. HPV-positive participants had significantly higher odds of experiencing >10% weight loss at three months post-treatment than HPV-negative participants (OR = 49.68, 95% CI (2.7, 912.86) p ≤ 0.01). Conclusions: The nutritional status of HPV positive and negative patients were both negatively affected by treatment and require similarly intense nutritional intervention. In acute recovery, HPV positive patients may require more intense intervention. At 3- months post treatment, both groups still showed nutritional symptoms that require nutritional intervention so ongoing nutritional support is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Harrowfield
- Nutrition and Speech Pathology Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, 3000, Australia; (J.H.); (E.L.)
| | - Elizabeth Isenring
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast 4226, Australia;
| | - Nicole Kiss
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia;
- Allied Health Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne 3000, Australia
| | - Erin Laing
- Nutrition and Speech Pathology Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, 3000, Australia; (J.H.); (E.L.)
| | - Ruby Lipson-Smith
- Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne 3000, Australia;
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Heidelberg 3084, Australia
| | - Ben Britton
- Hunter New England Health, Newcastle 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle 2308, Australia
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, Newcastle 2305, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Dysphagia, voice problems, and pain in head and neck cancer patients. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2021; 278:3985-3994. [PMID: 33452920 PMCID: PMC8382612 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-020-06584-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Head and neck cancer (HNC) and its treatment can leave devastating side effects with a relevant impact on physical and emotional quality of life (QoL) of HNC patients. The objectives were to examine the amount of dysphagia, voice problems, and pain in HNC patients, the impact of sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors on these symptoms, the psychometric properties of the EAT-10, and the relationship between these symptoms and QoL variables. METHODS HNC patients attending for regular follow-up from 07/2013 to 09/2019 completed questionnaires (Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10); questions from the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC H&N35) on dysphagia, voice problems, pain, fatigue, and QoL collected with the software OncoFunction. Associations between prognostic factors and symptoms were tested with analyses of variance (ANOVAs). Associations between the symptom scales and QoL variables were expressed with Pearson correlations. RESULTS Of 689 patients, 54.9% suffered from dysphagia, the EAT-10 proved to be a reliable measure. The mean voice score was 37.6 (± 33.9) [range 0-100], the mean pain score 1.98 (± 2.24) [range 0-10]. Trimodality treatment was associated with the highest dysphagia scores. Dysphagia, voice problems, and pain significantly correlated with each other, the highest association was found for dysphagia and pain (r = 0.51). QoL was strongly correlated with dysphagia and pain (r = - 0.39 and r = - 0.40, respectively), while the association with voice problems was weaker (r = - 0.28). CONCLUSION Dysphagia is an important symptom in HNC patients greatly affecting patients' QoL and significantly correlating with voice problems and pain.
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Results of pretreatment swallowing evaluation in patients with stage III/IV laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2020; 278:3011-3018. [PMID: 33165732 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-020-06460-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma are among the common head and neck cancers causing considerable swallowing dysfunction. The functional status of the organ (larynx) is an important point of contention while considering the patients for organ preservation protocol. METHODOLOGY The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the swallowing status in stage III/IV laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma and its influence on treatment decision. We evaluated all treatment naïve patients who were referred to the swallowing clinic in 2017 (Jan-Dec) for assessment of swallowing prior to treatment initiation. RESULTS One hundred patients satisfied the eligibility criteria and were included in the study. The site and stage of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer cases were almost equal in number. Their median age was 58 years. Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) was done in all patients. 30% of the patients only had swallowing difficulties. Only advanced T-stage (p = 0.04) had an influence on the pretreatment swallowing status. Thirty-seven patients required nasogastric tube (NGT) for feeding. By 2 month post-treatment completion, most patients on NGT could resume oral feeding. CONCLUSIONS Pretreatment swallowing assessment alone did not significantly seem to influence our decisions for organ preservation treatment. However, patients with aspiration could be identified and managed appropriately. Most patients on NGT could resume oral feeds post-treatment completion.
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Jeans C, Ward EC, Brown B, Vertigan AE, Pigott AE, Nixon JL, Wratten C, Boggess M. Association between external and internal lymphedema and chronic dysphagia following head and neck cancer treatment. Head Neck 2020; 43:255-267. [PMID: 33001529 DOI: 10.1002/hed.26484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To examine the relationship between chronic external and internal head and neck lymphedema (HNL) and swallowing function in patients following head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. METHODS Seventy-nine participants, 1-3 years post treatment were assessed for external HNL using the MD Anderson Cancer Centre Lymphedema Rating Scale, and internal HNL using Patterson's Radiotherapy Edema Rating Scale. Swallowing was assessed via instrumental, clinical and patient-reported outcome measures. RESULTS HNL presented as internal only (68%), combined external/internal (29%), and external only (1%). Laryngeal penetration/aspiration was confirmed in 20%. Stepwise multivariable regression models, that accounted for primary site, revealed that a higher severity of external HNL and internal HNL was associated with more severe penetration/aspiration (P < .004 and P = .006, respectively), diet modification (P < .001 both), and poorer patient-reported outcomes (P = .037 and P = .014, respectively). CONCLUSION Increased swallowing issues can be expected in patients presenting with more severe external HNL and/or internal HNL following HNC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Jeans
- Division of Speech Pathology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Speech Pathology Department, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Waratah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- Division of Speech Pathology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health Services District, Queensland Health, Buranda, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bena Brown
- Division of Speech Pathology, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health Services District, Queensland Health, Buranda, Queensland, Australia.,Speech Pathology Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anne E Vertigan
- Speech Pathology Department, John Hunter Hospital and Belmont Hospital, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amanda E Pigott
- Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health Services District, Queensland Health, Buranda, Queensland, Australia.,Division of Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Occupational Therapy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jodie L Nixon
- Division of Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Occupational Therapy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chris Wratten
- Radiation Oncology Department, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Waratah, New South Wales, Australia
| | - May Boggess
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
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Shukla N, Pradhan B, Dikshit A, Chakraborty S, Alamri AM. A Review of Models Used for Investigating Barriers to Healthcare Access in Australia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E4087. [PMID: 32521710 PMCID: PMC7312585 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17114087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding barriers to healthcare access is a multifaceted challenge, which is often highly diverse depending on location and the prevalent surroundings. The barriers can range from transport accessibility to socio-economic conditions, ethnicity and various patient characteristics. Australia has one of the best healthcare systems in the world; however, there are several concerns surrounding its accessibility, primarily due to the vast geographical area it encompasses. This review study is an attempt to understand the various modeling approaches used by researchers to analyze diverse barriers related to specific disease types and the various areal distributions in the country. In terms of barriers, the most affected people are those living in rural and remote parts, and the situation is even worse for indigenous people. These models have mostly focused on the use of statistical models and spatial modeling. The review reveals that most of the focus has been on cancer-related studies and understanding accessibility among the rural and urban population. Future work should focus on further categorizing the population based on indigeneity, migration status and the use of advanced computational models. This article should not be considered an exhaustive review of every aspect as each section deserves a separate review of its own. However, it highlights all the key points, covered under several facets which can be used by researchers and policymakers to understand the current limitations and the steps that need to be taken to improve health accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagesh Shukla
- Centre for Advanced Modelling and Geospatial Information Systems (CAMGIS), University of Technology Sydney, 2007 NSW, Australia; (N.S.); (A.D.); (S.C.)
| | - Biswajeet Pradhan
- Centre for Advanced Modelling and Geospatial Information Systems (CAMGIS), University of Technology Sydney, 2007 NSW, Australia; (N.S.); (A.D.); (S.C.)
- Department of Energy and Mineral Resources Engineering, Sejong University, Choongmu-gwan, 209 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05006, Korea
| | - Abhirup Dikshit
- Centre for Advanced Modelling and Geospatial Information Systems (CAMGIS), University of Technology Sydney, 2007 NSW, Australia; (N.S.); (A.D.); (S.C.)
| | - Subrata Chakraborty
- Centre for Advanced Modelling and Geospatial Information Systems (CAMGIS), University of Technology Sydney, 2007 NSW, Australia; (N.S.); (A.D.); (S.C.)
| | - Abdullah M. Alamri
- Department of Geology & Geophysics, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
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Anderson NJ, Jackson JE, Wada M, Schneider M, Poulsen M, Rolfo M, Fahandej M, Gan H, Khoo V. The changing landscape of head and neck cancer radiotherapy patients: is high-risk, prolonged feeding tube use indicative of on-treatment weight loss? J Med Radiat Sci 2019; 66:250-258. [PMID: 31385650 PMCID: PMC6920685 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Precision radiotherapy relies heavily on optimal weight management. Our group previously developed a risk stratification model for patients at risk of prolonged feeding tube (FT) intervention. The study objective was to assess on-treatment weight loss according to stratified risk of prolonged FT use. METHODS One hundred and one (n = 101) definitive head and neck radiotherapy patients were included in this study. Patients were stratified into high risk (HRi: T-classification ≥ 3 with level 2 Nodal disease), high-intermediate risk (HIRi: T-classification ≥ 3 without level 2 Nodes) and low-intermediate risk (LIRi: T-classification < 3 with level 2 Nodes) of prolonged FT use. Demographic variables and on-treatment weight loss were evaluated according to risk status. RESULTS Oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC) was present in a larger proportion in the LIRi cohort (HRi: 71%, HIRi: 52%, LIRi: 81%, P = 0.008). LIRi patients were more likely to have human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated disease (88%, P = 0.001). Never/minimal smoking (P = 0.003), good performance status (P < 0.001), healthy BMI (P = 0.050) and no pre-existing dysphagia (P < 0.001) were predominant within the LIRi prognostic group. LIRi patients lost significantly more weight in total (HRi = 4.8% vs. LIRi = 8.2%, P = 0.002; HIRi = 5.2% vs. LIRi = 8.2%, P = 0.006) and when using a FT (HRi = 4.6% vs. LIRi = 8.8%, P < 0.001; HIRi = 5.3% vs. LIRi = 8.8%, P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Patients identified as low-intermediate risk of prolonged, ≥25% FT use report significantly increased weight loss compared with patients at higher risk of FT use. This cohort is typical of the increasing number of patients presenting with HPV-associated OPC. Results of this study suggest we should closely observe such patients throughout treatment, to ensure optimal weight maintenance, facilitating precision radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J. Anderson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research CentreAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Cancer Imaging, Peter MacCallum Cancer CentreMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation SciencesMonash UniversityMonashVictoriaAustralia
| | - James E. Jackson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research CentreAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation SciencesMonash UniversityMonashVictoriaAustralia
- School of MedicineGriffith UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
- Faculty of Health Sciences and MedicineBond UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
| | - Morikatsu Wada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research CentreAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Michal Schneider
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation SciencesMonash UniversityMonashVictoriaAustralia
| | - Michael Poulsen
- Radiation Oncology CentresGold Coast University HospitalGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
- Faculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandHerstonQueenslandAustralia
| | - Maureen Rolfo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research CentreAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Maziar Fahandej
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research CentreAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Palliative CareSt Vincent’s HospitalFitzroyVictoriaAustralia
| | - Hui Gan
- Department of Medical OncologyAustin Health and Olivia Newton‐John Cancer Research InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- School of Cancer MedicineLa Trobe University School of Cancer MedicineMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Vincent Khoo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research CentreAustin HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation SciencesMonash UniversityMonashVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Clinical OncologyRoyal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Cancer ResearchChelsea, LondonUK
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Jackson JE, Anderson NJ, Rolfo M, Wada M, Schneider M, Poulsen M, Fahandej M, Huynh A, Lee ST, Joon DL, Khoo V. 18F-FDG Metabolic Tumor Volume: Association with Short- and Long-Term Feeding Tube Use in Head and Neck IMRT. Dysphagia 2018; 34:341-349. [PMID: 30267142 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-018-9946-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the metabolic tumor volume (MTV) of head and neck primary tumors may be a significant prognostic factor for feeding tube (FT) use and FT dependence. Seventy-nine patients with evaluable primary tumors, pre-therapy FDG-PET scans, treated with definitive intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) (± concurrent chemotherapy) for head and neck mucosal cancers were included. MTV was quantified and recorded for the primary lesion using a minimum standardized uptake value (SUV) threshold of 2.0. Patients were recommended prophylactic FT and followed up by a dietician for at least eight weeks of post-radiotherapy. Associations between MTV, dose to swallowing organs at risk, FT use, and FT dependence were analyzed. MTV was positively correlated with gross tumor volume (GTV) (r = 0.7357; p < 0.0001). MTVs larger than 17 cc were associated with higher rates of FT use (87.8% vs. 69.5%, p = 0.0067) and FT dependence at six weeks (76.7% vs. 41.7%, p = 0.0024) and six months (25.0% vs. 8.7%, p = 0.0088). Increasing MTV was associated with increasing mean dose to the oral cavity (p = < 0.0001), tongue base (p = 0.0009), and superior (SPCM) (p = 0.0001) and middle pharyngeal constrictor muscles (MPCM) (p = 0.0005). Increasing MTV was associated with increasing maximum dose to oral cavity (p = 0.0028), tongue base (p = 0.0056), SPCM (p = 0.0037), and MPCM (p = 0.0085). Pre-treatment MTV is a reproducible parameter that can be generated at or prior to a pre-treatment Multidisciplinary Tumor Board and may expedite decisions regarding placement of prophylactic FTs. Prospective evaluation in larger series is required to determine whether MTV is a more useful prognostic variable for FT use than clinical T-classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Jackson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia.
- Radiation Oncology Centres, Gold Coast University Hospital, 1 Hospital Boulevard, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia.
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia.
| | - Nigel J Anderson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Cancer Imaging, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Maureen Rolfo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Morikatsu Wada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Michal Schneider
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Poulsen
- Radiation Oncology Centres, Gold Coast University Hospital, 1 Hospital Boulevard, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Maziar Fahandej
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Anna Huynh
- Radiation Oncology Centres, Gold Coast University Hospital, 1 Hospital Boulevard, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Sze Ting Lee
- Centre for PET, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Daryl Lim Joon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Vincent Khoo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Cancer Research, Chelsea, London, UK
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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13
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Carmignani I, Locatello LG, Desideri I, Bonomo P, Olmetto E, Livi L, Le Saec O, Coscarelli S, Mannelli G. Analysis of dysphagia in advanced-stage head-and-neck cancer patients: impact on quality of life and development of a preventive swallowing treatment. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 275:2159-2167. [PMID: 29978259 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-018-5054-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Swallowing and voice dysfunctions are common side effects following head-and-neck squamous-cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treatment. Our aim was to analyze the relationships between quality of life, swallowing, and phonatory problems in patients with an advanced-stage HNSCC and to prospectively evaluate the effects of a prophylactic swallowing program. METHODS First, we retrospectively studied 60 advanced HNSCC patients treated with exclusive or adjuvant radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy (RT/CRT). Subjects were classified according to general and clinical-therapeutic features. Outcome measures included EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-H&N35, Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI), M.D.Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI), and Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Then, we conducted a prospective evaluation of a prophylactic swallowing counselling in 12 consecutive advanced-stage HNSCC patients by a two-arm case-control analysis. These patients were treated with exclusive or adjuvant RT/CRT. RESULTS 71% of the retrospective population studied reported swallowing dysfunction as a major side effect. No differences were detected in the severity of dysphagia or dysphonia according to type of treatment or staging of the primary tumour, while hypopharyngeal and laryngeal cancer patients showed significantly better swallowing ability and better QoL compared to oral cavity and oropharyngeal localisation (p < 0.05). In addition, a relevant correlation between swallowing and voice problems emerged (p < 0.05). In the prospective part, while no statistical correlation was evident before the start of RT/CRT in the experimental group compared to the control one, the former showed better performances at MDADI (p = 0.006) and DHI (p = 0.002) test 3 months after its end. CONCLUSION Dysphagia is both an acute-and-long-term side effect which greatly affects QoL of HNSCC patients undergoing multimodality treatment. Our data show that a prophylactic swallowing program could actually produce a beneficial effect on patients' outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 1b and 2b.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Carmignani
- Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, AOU-Careggi, Via Largo Palagi 1, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Luca Giovanni Locatello
- Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, AOU-Careggi, Via Largo Palagi 1, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Isacco Desideri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Bonomo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Emanuela Olmetto
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Livi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Odile Le Saec
- Phoniatrics Unit, University Hospital Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Giuditta Mannelli
- Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, AOU-Careggi, Via Largo Palagi 1, 50134, Florence, Italy.
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14
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Krekeler BN, Broadfoot CK, Johnson S, Connor NP, Rogus-Pulia N. Patient Adherence to Dysphagia Recommendations: A Systematic Review. Dysphagia 2018; 33:173-184. [PMID: 28965240 PMCID: PMC5866734 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-017-9852-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Patient adherence to treatment recommendations is an important issue for healthcare providers, in a multitude of specialties, and is critical when assessing the efficacy and effectiveness of a particular treatment approach. Patients who have swallowing impairment often require complex and specific interventions requiring altered daily patterns of behavior. Patients with dysphagia who do not follow recommendations or prescribed exercises may not receive maximum benefit of an intervention. Poor adherence also makes it more difficult to evaluate efficacy of a treatment both clinically and in experimental settings. Further, swallow safety can be compromised if certain recommendations are not followed. Our purpose was to systematically review the literature to understand what is known about adherence within the field of dysphagia treatment. We systematically identified 12 studies that tracked and reported patient-specific adherence. In this review, we found that the average adherence rate from these studies ranges between 21.9 and 51.9%. Adherence to prophylactic treatment recommendations for patients with head and neck cancer was the focus in 9/12 studies. The findings of this review identify a large gap in knowledge regarding adherence to dysphagia treatment. Few studies account for adherence within their study designs. When planning dysphagia treatment studies, it is imperative that investigators include information regarding patient adherence to accurately interpret findings. Given the variable adherence rates found in this review, factors influencing patient adherence with dysphagia treatments should be identified to increase adherence in future trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany N Krekeler
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Medical Science Center, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Avenue, Room 483, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, 1975 Willow Drive, 361 Goodnight Hall, Scott H, Madison, WI, 53706-1103, USA.
| | - Courtney K Broadfoot
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Medical Science Center, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Avenue, Room 483, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, 1975 Willow Drive, 361 Goodnight Hall, Scott H, Madison, WI, 53706-1103, USA
| | - Stephen Johnson
- Ebling Library, Health Sciences Learning Center, University of Wisconsin, Room 2336, 750 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53705-2221, USA
| | - Nadine P Connor
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Medical Science Center, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Avenue, Room 483, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, 1975 Willow Drive, 361 Goodnight Hall, Scott H, Madison, WI, 53706-1103, USA
| | - Nicole Rogus-Pulia
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Medical Science Center, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Avenue, Room 483, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, 1975 Willow Drive, 361 Goodnight Hall, Scott H, Madison, WI, 53706-1103, USA
- Department of Medicine-Geriatrics and Gerontology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC) Veterans Administration Hospital, William S. Middleton Memorial Hospital, D5216, 2500 Overlook Terrace, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
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15
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Xinou E, Chryssogonidis I, Kalogera-Fountzila A, Panagiotopoulou-Mpoukla D, Printza A. Longitudinal Evaluation of Swallowing with Videofluoroscopy in Patients with Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer After Chemoradiation. Dysphagia 2018; 33:691-706. [DOI: 10.1007/s00455-018-9889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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16
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Hedström J, Tuomi L, Andersson M, Dotevall H, Osbeck H, Finizia C. Within-Bolus Variability of the Penetration-Aspiration Scale Across Two Subsequent Swallows in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer. Dysphagia 2017; 32:683-690. [PMID: 28593510 PMCID: PMC5608789 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-017-9814-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To compare two consecutive swallowing attempts to study if there is a difference in Rosenbek’s penetration-aspiration scale (PAS) scores between the first and second swallowing attempt of the same bolus type in videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing (VFS). Additional aims include reflecting on which bolus sizes and consistencies are the most relevant to include in further studies for head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. The VFS for 38 patients curatively treated for HNC was studied. All included patients showed swallowing difficulties (PAS ≥ 2). The examination protocol included two swallows each of six different boluses: 3, 5, 10, 20 ml thin, 5 ml mildly thick, and 3 ml of extremely thick liquid. All boluses were compared between the first and second swallowing attempt with regard to PAS scores. No statistically significant differences in PAS were found between the first and second swallow for any of the boluses in this study on group level. For 20 ml thin and 3 ml extremely thick liquid, there were low Intra-Class Correlations, indicating a low within-bolus agreement. The greatest within-bolus differences were found for 20 ml thin, 5 ml mildly thick and 3 ml extremely thick liquid, which demonstrated high intra-individual coefficient of variation (0.458–0.759). The data of this study show a high within-bolus variability of the PAS score between two subsequent swallows for all different consistencies. In order to assess swallowing safety, the highest PAS score for each bolus type is suggested for use in studies of HNC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Hedström
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Lisa Tuomi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mats Andersson
- Department of Radiology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hans Dotevall
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hanna Osbeck
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Caterina Finizia
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
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17
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Dysphagia, Speech, Voice, and Trismus following Radiotherapy and/or Chemotherapy in Patients with Head and Neck Carcinoma: Review of the Literature. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:6086894. [PMID: 27722170 PMCID: PMC5045989 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6086894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Introduction. Patients with head and neck cancer suffer from various impairments due to the primary illness, as well as secondary consequences of the oncological treatment. This systematic review describes the effects of radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy on the functions of the upper aerodigestive tract in patients with head and neck cancer. Methods. A systematic literature search was performed by two independent reviewers using the electronic databases PubMed and Embase. All dates up to May 2016 were included. Results. Of the 947 abstracts, sixty articles met the inclusion criteria and described one or more aspects of the sequelae of radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Forty studies described swallowing-related problems, 24 described voice-related problems, seven described trismus, and 25 studies described general quality of life. Only 14 articles reported that speech pathologists conducted the interventions, of which only six articles described in detail what the interventions involved. Conclusion. In general, voice quality improved following intervention, whereas quality of life, dysphagia, and oral intake deteriorated during and after treatment. However, as a consequence of the diversity in treatment protocols and patient characteristics, the conclusions of most studies cannot be easily generalised. Further research on the effects of oncological interventions on the upper aerodigestive tract is needed.
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18
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Barnhart MK, Ward EC, Cartmill B, Robinson RA, Simms VA, Chandler SJ, Wurth ET, Smee RI. Pretreatment factors associated with functional oral intake and feeding tube use at 1 and 6 months post-radiotherapy (+/- chemotherapy) for head and neck cancer. EUROPEAN ARCHIVES OF OTO-RHINO-LARYNGOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN FEDERATION OF OTO-RHINO-LARYNGOLOGICAL SOCIETIES (EUFOS) : AFFILIATED WITH THE GERMAN SOCIETY FOR OTO-RHINO-LARYNGOLOGY - HEAD AND NECK SURGERY 2016. [PMID: 27498203 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-016-4241-9.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2022]
Abstract
A proportion of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) experience significant swallowing difficulty during and post-radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy (RT/CRT). Identifying patients during the pretreatment period who are anticipated to have compromised oral intake would allow for early and accurate patient education, and prioritisation of their management. Ascertaining a clear set of pretreatment predictors from the literature is challenging due to heterogeneity in study designs and patient cohorts, with minimal prospective data available (especially at 1-month post-treatment). The objectives of this study were to investigate which pretreatment factors predicted compromised oral intake and feeding tube use at 1 and 6 months post-RT/CRT. Prospective data were collected on 80 consecutive HNC patients receiving RT/CRT from 2011 to 2014. The primary outcome was to identify predictors of a modified diet at 1 and 6 months post-RT/CRT. Secondary outcomes were to identify predictors of feeding tube use at these time intervals, and <6 vs. >6 week duration of feeding tube use. Multivariate analysis revealed bilateral neck radiotherapy treatment was a strong predictor of modified diets at 1 month (p < 0.001), and T-stages T3/T4 a predictor of modified diets at 6 months (p = 0.03). Patients treated with concurrent CRT (p = 0.02) and bilateral neck treatment (p = 0.02) predicted feeding tube use at 1 month, and concurrent CRT predicted feeding tube use for >6 weeks (p = 0.04). Therefore, patients receiving bilateral neck treatment and/or CRT are at greatest risk of requiring modified diets and feeding tube use early post-treatment, and should be prioritised for intervention and ongoing support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly K Barnhart
- Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital (POWH), Level 2 High Street Entrance, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia. .,The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth C Ward
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.,Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Queensland Health, Buranda, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Bena Cartmill
- Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Queensland Health, Buranda, QLD, 4102, Australia.,Speech Pathology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Rachelle A Robinson
- Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital (POWH), Level 2 High Street Entrance, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Virginia A Simms
- Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital (POWH), Level 2 High Street Entrance, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Sophie J Chandler
- Speech Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital (POWH), Level 2 High Street Entrance, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Elea T Wurth
- Simba Analytics, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Robert I Smee
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, POWH, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia.,The Clinical Teaching School, University New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,Acting Dir, Radiation Oncology, Tamworth Base Hospital, Tamworth, NSW, 2340, Australia
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19
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Arens C, Herrmann IF, Rohrbach S, Schwemmle C, Nawka T. Position paper of the German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and the German Society of Phoniatrics and Pediatric Audiology - Current state of clinical and endoscopic diagnostics, evaluation, and therapy of swallowing disorders in children. GMS CURRENT TOPICS IN OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY, HEAD AND NECK SURGERY 2015; 14:Doc02. [PMID: 26770277 PMCID: PMC4702052 DOI: 10.3205/cto000117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Swallowing disorders are frequent. The main concern is mortality due to aspiration-induced pneumonia and malnutrition. In addition, quality of life is severely affected. The demographic trend indicates an increase of dysphagia in the future. Neurodegenerative diseases, tumors of the digestive tract, and sequelae of tumor treatment in the head and neck region are the main pathologic entities. Predominantly ENT physicians and phoniatricians are asked for diagnostics and therapy, and will coordinate the interdisciplinary treatment according to the endoscopic findings. A differentiated approach in history, diagnostics, and symptom-oriented treatment is necessary for these mostly complex disorders. Integration of non-medical staff such as speech therapists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists in planning and executing an effective therapy expands and completes the patient-oriented care. Conservative treatment by these therapists is an important pillar in the treatment. Parts of the specific diagnostics can be taken over in close cooperation. In particular, an interdisciplinary cooperation with the staff of intensive care medicine is essential. The diagnostic procedures of specific endoscopy as described in this position paper are part of the primary and fundamental tasks of ENT specialists and phoniatrists. Endoscopy is a medical service that is basically not delegable. Consequently, substitution of the physician is excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Arens
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospitals Magdeburg, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany
| | | | - Saskia Rohrbach
- Department of Audiology and Phoniatrics, Charité - University Medicine of Berlin, Germany
| | - Cornelia Schwemmle
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospitals Magdeburg, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tadeus Nawka
- Department of Audiology and Phoniatrics, Charité - University Medicine of Berlin, Germany
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Silveira MH, Dedivitis RA, Queija DS, Nascimento PC. Quality of life in swallowing disorders after nonsurgical treatment for head and neck cancer. Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2014; 19:46-54. [PMID: 25992151 PMCID: PMC4392544 DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1395790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy can result in severe swallowing disorders with potential risk for aspiration and can negatively impact the patient's quality of life (QOL). Objective To assess swallowing-related QOL in patients who underwent radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancer. Methods We interviewed 110 patients (85 men and 25 women) who had undergone exclusive radiotherapy (25.5%) or concomitant chemoradiotherapy (74.5%) from 6 to 12 months before the study. The Quality of Life in Swallowing Disorders (SWAL-QOL) questionnaire was employed to evaluate dysphagia-related QOL. Results The QOL was reduced in all domains for all patients. The scores were worse among men. There was a relationship between oral cavity as the primary cancer site and the fatigue domain and also between advanced cancer stage and the impact of food selection, communication, and social function domains. Chemoradiotherapy association, the presence of nasogastric tube and tracheotomy, and the persistence of alcoholism and smoking had also a negative effect on the QOL. Conclusions According to the SWAL-QOL questionnaire, the dysphagia-related impact on QOL was observed 6 to 12 months after the treatment ended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Halina Silveira
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, Santos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rogerio A Dedivitis
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Hospital das Clinicas, University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine, Santos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Débora Santos Queija
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, Santos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo César Nascimento
- Department of Radiotherapy, Irmandade da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Santos, Santos, São Paulo, Brazil
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Dysphagia in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Pretreatment Evaluation, Predictive Factors, and Assessment during Radio-Chemotherapy, Recommendations. Clin Exp Otorhinolaryngol 2013; 6:117-26. [PMID: 24069513 PMCID: PMC3781223 DOI: 10.3342/ceo.2013.6.3.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in head and neck cancer (HNC) therapies has improved tumor response, loco-regional control, and survival. However, treatment intensification also increases early and late toxicities. Dysphagia is an underestimated symptom in HNC patients. Impairment of swallowing process could cause malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration, and pneumonia. A comprehensive literature review finalized in May 2012 included searches of electronic databases (Medline, Embase, and CAB abstracts) and scientific societies meetings materials (American Society of Clinical Oncology, Associazione Italiana Radioterapia Oncologica, Associazione Italiana di Oncologia Cervico-Cefalica, American Head and Neck Society, and European Society for Medical Oncology). Hand-searches of HNC journals and reference lists were carried out. Approximately one-third of dysphagia patients developed pneumonia requiring treatment. Aspiration pneumonia associated mortality ranged from 20% to 65%. Unidentified dysphagia caused significant morbidity, increased mortality, and decreased the quality of life. In this review we underline definition, causes, predictive factors of dysphagia and report on pretreatment and on-treatment evaluation, suggesting some key points to avoid underestimation. A multi-parameter assessment of swallowing problems may allow an earlier diagnosis. An appropriate evaluation might lead to a better treatment of both symptoms and cancer.
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Risk model and nomogram for dysphagia and xerostomia prediction in head and neck cancer patients treated by radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Dysphagia 2013; 28:388-94. [PMID: 23355106 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-012-9445-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In our randomized trial on hyperbaric oxygen (HBO), it was shown that HBO could reduce dysphagia and xerostomia, which are frequently encountered after (chemo-) radiotherapy (RT) and/or surgery for head and neck cancer (HNC). A risk model and nomogram are developed to select those patients who most likely will respond to HBO treatment. A total of 434 HNC patients treated from 2000 to 2008 were analyzed and filled out the EORTC QLQC-30 and H&N35 questionnaires. Age, gender, chemotherapy, T and N stages, site, radiotherapy technique, RT boost, surgery of the primary tumor and neck, bilateral RT, and dose were analyzed in a statistical model. The discriminative value of the model was evaluated based on receiver operating characteristics (ROC), the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and proportion of correctly classified measures. Significant factors in predicting swallowing problems are age, follow-up duration, tumor site, chemotherapy, surgery of the primary tumor and neck, and dose. For dry mouth, the significant factors are age, gender, tumor site, N stage, chemotherapy, and bilateral irradiation. For dysphagia and xerostomia, the area under the ROC curve is 0.7034 and 0.7224, respectively, with a specificity of 89/77%, sensitivity of 27/58%, and a positive predictive value of 83/67% for dysphagia and xerostomia, respectively. The developed predictive risk model could be used to select patients for costly hyperbaric oxygen treatment to prevent or reduce severe late side effects of HNC treatment. Our model serves as a guideline for the Department of Radiation Oncology to reduce costs by excluding patients not amenable to hyperbaric oxygen protocols. The nomogram presented is a useful tool for clinicians in assessing patient risks when deciding on follow-up strategies (e.g., hyperbaric oxygen treatment) after RT or surgery for HNC.
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Agarwal J, Palwe V, Dutta D, Gupta T, Laskar SG, Budrukkar A, Murthy V, Chaturvedi P, Pai P, Chaukar D, D'Cruz AK, Kulkarni S, Kulkarni A, Baccher G, Shrivastava SK. Objective assessment of swallowing function after definitive concurrent (chemo)radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer. Dysphagia 2011. [PMID: 21344191 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-011-9326-4.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to objectively assess swallowing function and factors impacting it after curative intent definitive (chemo)radiotherapy (CRT) for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Swallowing function was studied in a cohort of 47 patients with locoregionally advanced (T1-4, N0-3) HNSCC treated with definitive CRT. Objective assessment of swallowing function was done using modified barium swallow (MBS) at baseline (pre-CRT) and subsequent follow-ups. Scoring of MBS was done using penetration-aspiration scale (PAS). Abnormal swallowing was defined in terms of incidence and severity of penetration-aspiration, pharyngeal residue, postural change, and regurgitation. Aspiration, residual, postural change, and regurgitation were present on baseline pre-CRT assessment in 9 (19%), 11 (23%), 10 (21%), and 5 (10%) patients that increased to 11 (29%), 11 (29%), 12 (32%), and 10 (26%) patients, respectively, at 6-month post-CRT evaluation. The proportion of patients with high PAS scores (3-7) increased from 27% at baseline to 37% at 6-month post-CRT evaluation. Among patients (n = 34) with low PAS scores (≤2) at baseline, additional impairment of swallowing function was seen in 53 and 46% at 2- and 6-month assessment, respectively. Residue (44%) and aspiration (18%) domains were impaired in a higher proportion of patients after CRT. Thin and thick barium had higher aspiration and residue function impairment, respectively. Patients with pre-CRT poor subjective swallowing function (P = 0.004), hypopharyngeal primary (P = 0.05), and large tumor volume (P = 0.05) had significantly worse objective swallowing function at baseline as demonstrated by pretreatment PAS scores. This study provides useful information regarding patterns of objective swallowing dysfunction in patients treated with definitive (chemo)radiotherapy. There is significant impairment of objective swallowing function in all domains following CRT, with residue and aspiration domains being affected most significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaiprakash Agarwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, 400012, India.
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Agarwal J, Palwe V, Dutta D, Gupta T, Laskar SG, Budrukkar A, Murthy V, Chaturvedi P, Pai P, Chaukar D, D'Cruz AK, Kulkarni S, Kulkarni A, Baccher G, Shrivastava SK. Objective assessment of swallowing function after definitive concurrent (chemo)radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer. Dysphagia 2011; 26:399-406. [PMID: 21344191 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-011-9326-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2010] [Accepted: 01/06/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to objectively assess swallowing function and factors impacting it after curative intent definitive (chemo)radiotherapy (CRT) for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Swallowing function was studied in a cohort of 47 patients with locoregionally advanced (T1-4, N0-3) HNSCC treated with definitive CRT. Objective assessment of swallowing function was done using modified barium swallow (MBS) at baseline (pre-CRT) and subsequent follow-ups. Scoring of MBS was done using penetration-aspiration scale (PAS). Abnormal swallowing was defined in terms of incidence and severity of penetration-aspiration, pharyngeal residue, postural change, and regurgitation. Aspiration, residual, postural change, and regurgitation were present on baseline pre-CRT assessment in 9 (19%), 11 (23%), 10 (21%), and 5 (10%) patients that increased to 11 (29%), 11 (29%), 12 (32%), and 10 (26%) patients, respectively, at 6-month post-CRT evaluation. The proportion of patients with high PAS scores (3-7) increased from 27% at baseline to 37% at 6-month post-CRT evaluation. Among patients (n = 34) with low PAS scores (≤2) at baseline, additional impairment of swallowing function was seen in 53 and 46% at 2- and 6-month assessment, respectively. Residue (44%) and aspiration (18%) domains were impaired in a higher proportion of patients after CRT. Thin and thick barium had higher aspiration and residue function impairment, respectively. Patients with pre-CRT poor subjective swallowing function (P = 0.004), hypopharyngeal primary (P = 0.05), and large tumor volume (P = 0.05) had significantly worse objective swallowing function at baseline as demonstrated by pretreatment PAS scores. This study provides useful information regarding patterns of objective swallowing dysfunction in patients treated with definitive (chemo)radiotherapy. There is significant impairment of objective swallowing function in all domains following CRT, with residue and aspiration domains being affected most significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaiprakash Agarwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, 400012, India.
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Corry J, Peters LJ, Rischin D. Optimising the therapeutic ratio in head and neck cancer. Lancet Oncol 2010; 11:287-91. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(09)70384-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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