A randomized prospective study of rehabilitation therapy in the treatment of radiation-induced dysphagia and trismus

Effectiveness of a Protocol Intervention for Aspiration Pneumonia Prevention in Patients With Esophageal Cancer During Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy: A Randomized Control Trial

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia is a leading cause of aspiration pneumonia and negatively affects tolerance of chemoradiotherapy in patients with esophageal cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess a protocol for preventing the occurrence of aspiration pneumonia for adult patients with esophageal cancer experiencing swallowing dysfunction.

METHODS

This study tested a dysphagia intervention that included high-risk patients confirmed by the Eating Assessment Tool questionnaire and Water Swallowing Test. A protocol guide (Interventions for Esophageal Dysphagia [IED]) to prevent aspiration pneumonia during chemoradiotherapy was also implemented. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The study period was 50 days; participants were visited every 7 days for a total of 7 times. Instruments for data collection included The Eating Assessment Tool, Water Swallowing Test, and personal information. The IED was administered only to the experimental group. All data were managed using IBM SPSS statistics version 21.0.

RESULTS

The IED significantly reduced the occurrence of aspiration pneumonia ( P = .012), delayed the onset of aspiration pneumonia ( P = .005), and extended the survival time ( P = .007) in the experimental group.

CONCLUSION

For patients with esophageal cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy, this protocol improved swallowing dysfunction and reduced aspiration pneumonia.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

The IED protocol should be included in continuous educational training for clinical nurses to help them become familiar with these interventions and to provide these strategies to patients.

Boswellia serrata Enhances Passive Range-of-Motion Exercises in Radiation-Induced Trismus: A Case Report

Trismus is a common, extremely detrimental side effect following definitive radiotherapy for head and neck malignancies. Existing therapeutic modalities (active and passive range-of-motion exercises and systemic therapies) offer only modest, slow improvements in jaw opening; thus, there is a need for additional treatment options. Boswellia serrata (BS) ("Indian frankincense") is a tree native to West Asia and North Africa that produces resin-containing "boswellic" acids. These have been shown to have in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory effects and have previously been found to be an effective treatment for asthma, colitis, arthritis, and post-radiation edema. Herein we report the case of a 54-year-old male with severe post-radiation trismus who experienced a dramatic resolution with BS/Therabite® combination therapy. His trismus improved from 6 mm to 45 mm over 10 weeks (0.46 mm/day), far exceeding previous rates of improvement documented in the literature. There were no ill effects. Given the dearth of effective treatments for post-radiation trismus, BS is a promising agent deserving of further study.

Rehabilitation Interventions in Head and Neck Cancer: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to identify and appraise current evidence for rehabilitation interventions in head and neck cancer.

DESIGN

A previously published scoping review spanning 1990 through April 2017 was updated through January 11, 2023 and narrowed to include only interventional studies (Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2019;100(12):2381-2388). Included studies had a majority head and neck cancer population and rehabilitation-specific interventions. Pairs of authors extracted data and evaluated study quality using the PEDro tool. Results were organized by intervention type.

RESULTS

Of 1338 unique citations, 83 studies with 87 citations met inclusion criteria. The median study sample size was 49 (range = 9-399). The most common interventions focused on swallow (16 studies), jaw (11), or both (6), followed by whole-body exercise (14) and voice (10). Most interventions took place in the outpatient setting (77) and were restorative in intent (65 articles). The overall study quality was fair (median PEDro score 5, range 0-8); none were of excellent quality (PEDro >9).

CONCLUSIONS

Most head and neck cancer rehabilitation interventions have focused on restorative swallow and jaw exercises and whole-body exercise to address dysphagia, trismus, and deconditioning. More high-quality evidence for head and neck cancer rehabilitation interventions that address a wider range of impairments and activity and social participation limitations during various cancer care phases is urgently needed to reduce head and neck cancer-associated morbidity.

Efficacy of matrix rhythm therapy (MaRhyThe©) over conventional therapy on radiation induced trismus-A pilot randomised control trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Prevalence of radiation induced trismus in head and neck cancer (HNC) is 38% to 42% globally. Radiation induced trismus depends on the dosage of the radiation therapy and the surgical procedure. Myofascial release (MFR) and Matrix rhythm therapy (MaRhyThe©) are techniques used to treat the myofascial pain and muscular restriction. The present study aimed to compare the effect of MFR and MaRhyThe© on pain, mouth opening, TMJ disability index (TDI), Gothenburg Trismuus Questionnaire (GTQ), Functional Intraoral Glasgow Scale (FIGS) and quality of life in participants with Radiation induced trismus.

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY

About 30 participants in age group of 18 to 65 years diagnosed with radiation induced trismus were included in the study. All the participants were randomly allocated in 2 groups MFR group and MaRhyThe© group. Both the group received structured exercise program. Primary outcomes were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Vernier Caliper reading for maximum mouth opening. Secondary outcome measure viz. GTQ, TDI, FIGS and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Head and Neck (FACT-HN) all obtained values were analyzed at the end of 4th week.

RESULTS

The present study demonstrated significant improvement in terms of reduction in pain, improvement in maximum mouth opening and in GTQ, TMD, FIGS, and FACT-HN scores in all the participants in both group (p ≤ 0.05). However, the groups showed equal effectiveness in the treatment of radiation induced trismus.

Swallowing Exercise Evaluated Using High-Density Surface Electromyography in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: Supplementary Analysis of an Exploratory Phase II Trial

Background and Objectives: Muscle strength evaluation using high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) was recently developed for the detailed analysis of the motor unit (MU). Detection of the spatial distribution of sEMG can detect changes in MU recruitment patterns resulting from muscle-strengthening exercises. We conducted a prospective study in 2022 to evaluate the safety and feasibility of transcutaneous electrical sensory stimulation (TESS) therapy using an interferential current device (IFCD) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) undergoing chemoradiotherapy (CRT), and reported the safety and feasibility of TESS. We evaluated the efficacy of swallowing exercises in patients with HNSCC undergoing CRT and determined the significance of sEMG in evaluating swallowing function. Materials and Methods: In this supplementary study, the patients performed muscle-strengthening exercises five days a week. The association of the effects of the exercises with body mass index, skeletal muscle mass index, HD-sEMG, tongue muscle strength, and tongue pressure were evaluated. Results: We found significant correlations between the rate of weight loss and skeletal muscle mass index reduction and the rate of change in the recruitment of the MU of the suprahyoid muscle group measured using HD-sEMG. Conclusions: We believe that nutritional supplementation is necessary in addition to muscle strengthening during CRT.

Evaluation of the Safety of Percutaneous Sensory Nerve Stimulation in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer Receiving Chemoradiotherapy

Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the standard treatment for locally advanced head and neck cancer; however, CRT may cause post-treatment dysphagia. Transcutaneous electrical sensory stimulation (TESS), developed in recent years for swallowing rehabilitation, is used at many medical facilities. Although TESS has been used for dysphagia in several fields, its safety and efficacy in patients with head and neck cancer remain to be clarified. Therefore, this study evaluated the safety of TESS in ten patients with head and neck cancers undergoing CRT. Swallowing rehabilitation intervention and TESS implementation were performed for all patients during CRT. Non-blood-toxicity adverse events (AEs), such as dermatitis and mucositis, occurred during CRT; however, the severity was less than grade 3. No patient experienced pain due to TESS. As survival time analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method for interferential current device implementation rates revealed a feasibility of 100% for up to 60 Gy and a feasibility of 78% for up to 70 Gy, TESS may be feasible until 70 Gy. This study confirmed the feasibility and safety of TESS in the head and neck region during CRT. Although the precise mechanism of TESS on dysphagia remains unclear, its continued use has great potential for improving sensory disturbance.

Effect of Oral Exercise on Trismus after Oral Cancer Radiotherapy: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Trismus is a severe complication of oral cancer treatment. Oral exercise is a potentially helpful approach for preventing or improving trismus. The study aimed to test the efficacy of an oral exercise for enhancing the maximum inter-incisal opening (MIO) in patients undergoing surgery and radiotherapy for oral cancer. This is a quasi-experimental study. A sample of 69 oral cancer patients completed the study, with 35 in the control group and 34 in the intervention group. Intervention subjects were asked to perform three 20-min oral exercise sessions per day for six months. Data on oral exercise practicing time, MIO, and mandibular function impairment were collected at the last radiotherapy exposure (T1), three months (T2), and six months (T3) after the radiotherapy. At T3, the intervention group exercised 217.1 min (95%CI: 107.4~326.7) more than the control group. The generalized estimation equations showed a statistically significant group-by-time interaction in MIO. The change in MIO score from T1 to T3, as indicated by the regression slope, was 2.5 mm (95%CI: 0.4~4.6) greater in the intervention group than in the control group. The results support the efficacy of the study intervention for improving patient exercise adherence and MIO.

Interventions for head and neck cancer survivors: Systematic review

BACKGROUND

Interventions for head/neck cancer (HNC) survivors may not address their cancer-related and general health needs.

METHODS

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guided this systematic review of studies from 2000 to 2021 of interventions targeting cancer survivors treated with curative-intent, using MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, and PsycINFO. Interventions were categorized into domains of the Quality of Cancer Survivorship Care Framework to characterize the scope and quality of interventions.

RESULTS

We identified 28 studies for inclusion: 13 randomized and 15 non-randomized. Most targeted surveillance/management of physical effects (n = 24) including 13 that also targeted psychosocial effects. Four studies addressed prevention/surveillance for recurrence/new cancers, one addressed health promotion/disease prevention, and one addressed chronic medical conditions. Most studies (n = 27) had medium-high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

There are few high-quality studies addressing HNC survivorship. Future rigorously designed studies should address broader areas of care, including chronic disease management and health promotion/disease prevention.

Systematic Review of Functional Outcomes in Cancer Rehabilitation

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the evidence regarding rehabilitation interventions targeting optimal physical or cognitive function in adults with a history of cancer and describe the breadth of evidence as well as strengths and limitations across a range of functional domains.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Plus, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. The time scope was January 2008 to April 2019.

STUDY SELECTION

Prospective, controlled trials including single- and multiarm cohorts investigating rehabilitative interventions for cancer survivors at any point in the continuum of care were included, if studies included a primary functional outcome measure. Secondary data analyses and pilot/feasibility studies were excluded. Full-text review identified 362 studies for inclusion.

DATA EXTRACTION

Extraction was performed by coauthor teams and quality and bias assessed using the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Classification of Evidence Scheme (class I-IV).

DATA SYNTHESIS

Studies for which the functional primary endpoint achieved significance were categorized into 9 functional areas foundational to cancer rehabilitation: (1) quality of life (109 studies), (2) activities of daily living (61 studies), (3) fatigue (59 studies), (4) functional mobility (55 studies), (5) exercise behavior (37 studies), (6) cognition (20 studies), (7) communication (10 studies), (8) sexual function (6 studies), and (9) return to work (5 studies). Most studies were categorized as class III in quality/bias. Averaging results found within each of the functional domains, 71% of studies reported statistically significant results after cancer rehabilitation intervention(s) for at least 1 functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide evidence supporting the efficacy of rehabilitative interventions for individuals with a cancer history. The findings should be balanced with the understanding that many studies had moderate risk of bias and/or limitations in study quality by AAN criteria. These results may provide a foundation for future work to establish clinical practice guidelines for rehabilitative interventions across cancer disease types.

Manual Therapy for Patients With Radiation-Associated Trismus After Head and Neck Cancer

Importance

Trismus is highly prevalent in head and neck cancer (HNC) survivorship. Current standards for trismus treatment include various stretch-based exercise protocols as a primary and single treatment modality with limited evidence regarding the role of manual therapy (MT) for this indication.

Objective

To assess the effect size and associations of response to MT to increase oral opening in the setting of radiation-associated trismus.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective case series was conducted at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center between 2016 and March 2020 (before COVID-19 interruption) and included 49 disease-free survivors of HNC who were referred for treatment of radiation-associated trismus.

Intervention

Intraoral MT (including or excluding external head and neck) targeting the muscles of mastication.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Maximum interincisal opening (MIO) before and after the initial MT session compared with serial MT sessions. Covariates were examined to determine the association with response to MT for trismus.

Results

A total of 49 survivors of HNC (13 women [27%]; 24 [49%] 64 years or younger; 25 [51%] 65 years or older; mean [range] of 6.6 [0-33] years postradiotherapy were included, 9 [18.4%] of whom underwent a single MT session; 40 [81.6%] who underwent multiple sessions [mean, 6; median (range), 3 (2-48)]). The MIO improved after a single session by a mean (SD) of 4.1 (1.9) mm (0.45 effect size) and after serial MT sessions by a mean (SD) of 6.4 (4.8) mm with an effect size of 0.7. No covariates were found to be clinically meaningfully associated with MIO improvement following MT.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this case series study suggest that MT improved MIO with a medium to large effect size in survivors of HNC with radiation-associated trismus. The results suggest that the largest increase in oral opening was achieved after the initial treatment and although gains were more modest, oral opening continued to improve with serial treatment. Covariates were not associated with MT response, suggesting that patients with clinical features often considered treatment refractory (eg, advanced disease, multiple lines of oncology treatment, ≥5 years posttreatment) may benefit from treatment with MT. Manual therapy may be a beneficial frontline or adjuvant treatment when combined with traditional stretching therapy. A clinically meaningful increase in oral opening has the potential to improve swallow function, speech, pain, and quality of life.

Exercise for Trismus Prevention in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

A common side effect of managing head and neck cancer is trismus, which devastates patients’ quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate prophylactic exercise interventions for preventing trismus and difficulty in mouth opening in head and neck cancer. Five databases were searched for randomized controlled trials. Network meta-analysis was performed with risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). This study finally included 11 randomized controlled trials (n = 805). Trismus risk in patients who received exercise with phone call follow up (E + P) was significantly lower than those received usual care (RR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.61) and exercise alone (RR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.18 to 6.22). Mouth opening in usual care was significantly lower than in the tri-integrated strategy group (MD = 15.22; 95% CI: 8.88 to 21.56). Exercise is recommended for preserving mouth opening distance in patients with head and neck cancer. Tri-integrated strategies could be an effective method for preventing trismus.

Behavioural Interventions in People with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Clinical Trials

Objective: To determine the effects of behavioural interventions in people with oropharyngeal dysphagia. Methods: Systematic literature searches were conducted to retrieve randomized controlled trials in four different databases (CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and PubMed). The methodological quality of eligible articles was assessed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials (RoB 2), after which meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model. Results: A total of 37 studies were included. Overall, a significant, large pre-post interventions effect size was found. To compare different types of interventions, all behavioural interventions and conventional dysphagia treatment comparison groups were categorised into compensatory, rehabilitative, and combined compensatory and rehabilitative interventions. Overall, significant treatment effects were identified favouring behavioural interventions. In particular, large effect sizes were found when comparing rehabilitative interventions with no dysphagia treatment, and combined interventions with compensatory conventional dysphagia treatment. When comparing selected interventions versus conventional dysphagia treatment, significant, large effect sizes were found in favour of Shaker exercise, chin tuck against resistance exercise, and expiratory muscle strength training. Conclusions: Behavioural interventions show promising effects in people with oropharyngeal dysphagia. However, due to high heterogeneity between studies, generalisations of meta-analyses need to be interpreted with care.

Exercise-based dysphagia rehabilitation for adults with oesophageal cancer: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia is prevalent in oesophageal cancer with significant clinical and psychosocial complications. The purpose of this study was i) to examine the impact of exercise-based dysphagia rehabilitation on clinical and quality of life outcomes in this population and ii) to identify key rehabilitation components that may inform future research in this area.

METHODS

Randomised control trials (RCT), non-RCTs, cohort studies and case series were included. 10 databases (CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, OpenGrey, PROSPERO, RIAN and SpeechBITE), 3 clinical trial registries, and relevant conference abstracts were searched in November 2020. Two independent authors assessed articles for eligibility before completing data extraction, quality assessment using ROBINS-I and Downs and Black Checklist, followed by descriptive data analysis. The primary outcomes included oral intake, respiratory status and quality of life. All comparable outcomes were combined and discussed throughout the manuscript as primary and secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Three single centre non-randomised control studies involving 311 participants were included. A meta-analysis could not be completed due to study heterogeneity. SLT-led post-operative dysphagia intervention led to significantly earlier start to oral intake and reduced length of post-operative hospital stay. No studies found a reduction in aspiration pneumonia rates, and no studies included patient reported or quality of life outcomes. Of the reported secondary outcomes, swallow prehabilitation resulted in significantly improved swallow efficiency following oesophageal surgery compared to the control group, and rehabilitation following surgery resulted in significantly reduced vallecular and pyriform sinus residue. The three studies were found to have 'serious' to 'critical' risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review highlights a low-volume of low-quality evidence to support exercise-based dysphagia rehabilitation in adults undergoing surgery for oesophageal cancer. As dysphagia is a common symptom impacting quality of life throughout survivorship, findings will guide future research to determine if swallowing rehabilitation should be included in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programmes. This review is limited by the inclusion of non-randomised control trials and the reliance on Japanese interpretation which may have resulted in bias. The reviewed studies were all of weak design with limited data reported.

Radiation-induced swallowing dysfunction in patients with head and neck cancer: A literature review

Swallowing dysfunction is a prevailing state following radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer. Following the advancement of cancer treatment in recent years, the survival rate of head and neck cancer has gradually increased. Simultaneously, patients with head and neck cancer suffer due to the long-duration and more prominent swallowing dysfunction states. Based on an extensive literature review, we aimed to explore the mechanisms, risk factors, and clinical evaluations of swallowing dysfunction and their related symptoms following radiotherapy. These include functional changes of the muscles, trismus, xerostomia, neuropathy, and lymphedema. When swallowing dysfunction occurs, patients usually seek medical help and are referred for rehabilitation therapy, such as muscle strengthening and tongue resistance exercise. Furthermore, clinicians should discuss with patients how and when to place the feeding tube. Only through detailed evaluation and management can swallowing dysfunction resolve and improve the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer following radiotherapy.

Cost-utility and cost-effectiveness of a guided self-help head and neck exercise program for patients treated with total laryngectomy: Results of a multi-center randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

The guided self-help exercise program called In Tune without Cords (ITwC) is effective in improving swallowing problems and communication among patients treated with a total laryngectomy (TL). This study investigated the cost-utility and cost-effectiveness of ITwC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients within 5 years after TL were included in this randomized controlled trial. Patients in the intervention group (n = 46) received access to the self-help exercise program with flexibility, range-of-motion and lymphedema exercises, and a self-care education program. Patients in the control group (n = 46) received access to the self-care education program only. Healthcare utilization (iMCQ), productivity losses (iPCQ), health status (EQ-5D-3L, EORTC QLU-C10D) and swallowing problems (SwalQol) were measured at baseline, 3- and 6-months follow-up. Hospital costs were extracted from medical files. Mean total costs and effects (quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) or SwalQol score) were compared with regression analyses using bias-corrected accelerated bootstrapping.

RESULTS

Mean total costs were non-significantly lower (-€685) and QALYs were significantly higher (+0.06) in the intervention compared to the control group. The probability that the intervention is less costly and more effective was 73%. Sensitivity analyses with adjustment for baseline costs and EQ-5D scores showed non-significantly higher costs (+€119 to +€364) and QALYs (+0.02 to +0.03). A sensitivity analysis using the QLU-C10D to calculate QALYs showed higher costs (+€741) and lower QALYs (-0.01) and an analysis that used the SwalQol showed higher costs (+€232) and higher effects (improvement of 6 points on a 0-100 scale).

CONCLUSION

ITwC is likely to be effective, but possibly at higher expenses.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NTR5255.

Prehabilitation in head and neck cancer patients: a literature review

Background

Dysphagia is one consequence of head and neck cancer that has a significant impact on quality of life for head and neck cancer survivors. While survival rates continue to improve, focus has shifted to maximizing long-term function, with prevention or prehabilitation programs becoming more common. Prehabilitation programs typically include an exercise regime that specifies the exercise type, the number of repetitions to complete per set, the number of sets of each exercise to complete per day, as well as the length of the treatment block. Ideally, exercise programs are designed with principles of neuromuscular plasticity in mind.

Methods

Twenty-nine original research articles published between 2006 and 2020 were included in this state-of-the-art review and examined for program timing and details.

Results

Two definitions for prehabilitation were noted: one third of the studies defined prehabilitation as preventative exercises prior to the start of acute cancer treatment; the remaining two thirds defined prehabilitation as treatment concurrent prehabilitation. Exercises prescribed ranged from general stretching and range of motion exercises, to trismus and swallowing specific exercises. The most common swallowing specific exercise was the Mendelsohn’s maneuver, followed by the effortful swallow, Shaker, and Masako maneuver. The most common dose was 10 repetitions of an exercise, three times per day for the duration of radiation therapy. The most common measures were questionnaires, followed by g-tube dependence, mouth opening, and MBS reports.

Conclusion

This review of the literature has shed light on the variability of prehabilitation timing, exercise type, dose, duration of treatment, and outcomes associated with prehabilitation, making the selection of an optimal prehabilitation program difficult at this time.

Swallowing exercises for head and neck cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials

BACKGROUND

Extensive surgery and chemo/radiation therapy (C/RT) to manage head and neck cancer (HNC) patients affects their ability to swallow food and liquids, risk of aspiration and greatly influences their quality of life (QOL).

OBJECTIVES

Ascertain the effectiveness of swallowing exercises on improving swallowing function, performance status, mouth opening, risk of aspiration/penetration and QOL in HNC patients.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Ovid-Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and Web of Science and included all available RCTs.

REVIEW METHODS

We followed the PRISMA guidelines and standard methods for conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Comprehensive Meta-analysis 3.0 using the random effects model was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 19 RCTs with 1100 participants were identified and included in the current review. Swallowing exercises had significant small effect on swallowing function 0.33 (95%CI = 0.00-0.65) and moderate effect on mouth opening 0.60 (95%CI = 0.21-0.99) immediately after intervention and small effect at 6-month follow-up 0.46 (95%CI = 0.11-0.81). However, non-significant effects were observed on risk of aspiration/penetration, performance status and all domains of QOL.

CONCLUSION

Swallowing exercises demonstrated effectiveness in improving swallowing function and mouth opening in HNC patients undergoing multimodal treatment. This is the first comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs to assess the effect of swallowing exercises in HNC patients undergoing multimodal treatment. Nurses can play an important role in assisting the delivery of oropharyngeal swallowing exercises including jaw exercises, tongue exercises and swallowing maneuvers with assistance and guidance from speech pathologists to help improve HNC complications and QOL for HNC survivors.

Radiation-induced neuropathies in head and neck cancer: prevention and treatment modalities

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the sixth most common human malignancy with a global incidence of 650,000 cases per year. Radiotherapy (RT) is commonly used as an effective therapy to treat tumours as a definitive or adjuvant treatment. Despite the substantial advances in RT contouring and dosage delivery, patients suffer from various radiation-induced complications, among which are toxicities to the nervous tissues in the head and neck area. Radiation-mediated neuropathies manifest as a result of increased oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis, neuroinflammation and altered cellular function in the nervous tissues. Eventually, molecular damage results in the formation of fibrotic tissues leading to susceptible loss of function of numerous neuronal substructures. Neuropathic sequelae following irradiation in the head and neck area include sensorineural hearing loss, alterations in taste and smell functions along with brachial plexopathy, and cranial nerves palsies. Numerous management options are available to relieve radiation-associated neurotoxicities notwithstanding treatment alternatives that remain restricted with limited benefits. In the scope of this review, we discuss the use of variable management and therapeutic modalities to palliate common radiation-induced neuropathies in head and neck cancers.

Impact of exercise with TheraBite device on trismus and health-related quality of life: A prospective study

Trismus is a common symptom in patients with head and neck cancer that affects many aspects of daily life negatively. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of structured exercise with the jaw-mobilizing device TheraBite on trismus, trismus-related symptomatology, and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with head and neck cancer. Fifteen patients with trismus (maximum interincisal opening [MIO] ≤35 mm) after oncologic treatment for head and neck cancer, underwent a 10-week exercise program with the TheraBite device and were followed regularly. Time between oncologic treatment and start of TheraBite exercise ranged from 0.7 to 14.8 years (average 6.2 years). MIO, trismus-related symptoms, and HRQL was assessed before and after exercise and after 6 months. A significant improvement in MIO was observed post-exercise (3.5 mm, 15.3%, p = 0.0002) and after 6-month of follow-up (4.7 mm, 22.1%, p = 0.0029). A statistically significant correlation was found between increased MIO and fewer trismus-related symptoms. In conclusion, exercise with TheraBite improved MIO and trismus-related symptoms in patients with trismus secondary to head and neck cancer. Structured exercise with the jaw-mobilizing device seems to be beneficial for patients with trismus independent of time since oncologic treatment.

Routine Use of Swallowing Outcome Measures Following Head and Neck Cancer in a Multidisciplinary Clinic Setting

Introduction  Chemoradiotherapy treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) can have a major impact on swallowing function and health-related quality of life.

The use of outcome measures in early detection of patients with swallowing problems provides the opportunity for targeting speech and language therapy (SLT) interventions to aid adaption and promote better clinical outcomes.

Objective  The purpose of the present study was to assess relationships between four outcomes measures over time, in a cohort of HNC patients, treated by (chemo-)radiotherapy.

Methods  Data were collected at 3 months and 12 months, on 49 consecutive patients with primary squamous cell cancer of the oropharynx, nasopharynx or hypopharynx stage T1–4, N0–2b, M0 disease.

Results  Out of 49 eligible patients, 45 completed assessment at 3 months and 20 at 12 months. The 3-month outcomes gave a strong indication of performance at 1 year. There were several strong correlations found between measures. The strongest was between the 3-month Performance Status Scale for Head and Neck Cancer (PSSHN) and the 12-month PSSHN (rs = 0.761, n  = 17), the 12-month PSSHN and the 12-month Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) (rs = 0.823, n  = 20), and the 12-month University of Washington Head and Neck Quality of Life (UWQoL) swallow and the 12-month Water Swallow Test (WST) capacity (rs = 0.759, n  = 17).

Conclusion  The UW-QoL swallow item and WST are easy to incorporate into routine care and should be used as part of a standard assessment of swallow outcome. These measures can serve to help screen patients for dysfunction and focus allocation of resources for those who would benefit from more comprehensive assessment and intervention by SLT.

Dysphagia after chemo-radiation for nasopharyngeal cancer: A scoping review

Objective

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) has distinct characteristics regarding its global prevalence, initial presentation, management and patient outcomes compared to other subtypes of head and neck cancer (HNC). The mainstay of NPC treatment is chemo-radiation (C/RT) and while dysphagia is a known early and late toxicity of C/RT treatment, the nature of dysphagia post NPC treatment has had limited investigation. The objective of this review is to summarise the existing evidence regarding dysphagia following NPC to inform the future research agenda for this population. Dysphagia incidence, characteristic deficits observed across the phases of swallowing, efficacy of current dysphagia interventions, and effect on quality of life will be explored.

Data sources

Databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science were included.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Two independent reviewers screened selected full text articles.

Results

Of the initial 2495 articles found, 28 articles were included. Reports of penetration and aspiration varied widely (0%–91.6%), with high rates of silent aspiration identified in 2 studies (42%, 66%). Oral, pharyngeal and upper esophageal phase impairments were reported. Of these, upper esophageal stasis and multiple pharyngeal stage deficits were most prevalent. The pharyngeal constrictors were found to have a significant dose–effect relationship and shielding to the anterior neck field was effective to preserve swallowing function. Six treatment studies were identified with limited evidence supporting the use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation, dilatation and swallowing exercises. Quality of life was adversely affected.

Conclusions

Dysphagia is a prevalent early and late problem post NPC treatment, with impairments across all phases of the swallow. Studies on preventing dysphagia and treatment efficacy remain limited. More systematic study of the nature of dysphagia and the efficacy of treatment in this population is warranted.

Dose in Exercise-Based Dysphagia Therapies: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Optimal exercise doses for exercise-based approaches to dysphagia treatment are unclear. To address this gap in knowledge, we performed a scoping review to provide a record of doses reported in the literature. A larger goal of this work was to promote detailed consideration of dosing parameters in dysphagia exercise treatments in intervention planning and outcome reporting.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus[Embase], CINAHL, and Cochrane databases from inception to July 2019, with search terms relating to dysphagia and exercises to treat swallowing impairments. Of the eligible 1906 peer-reviewed articles, 72 met inclusionary criteria by reporting, at minimum, both the frequency and duration of their exercise-based treatments.

RESULTS

Study interventions included tongue exercise (n = 16), Shaker/head lift (n = 13), respiratory muscle strength training (n = 6), combination exercise programs (n = 20), mandibular movement exercises (n = 7), lip muscle training (n = 5), and other programs that did not fit into the categories described above (n = 5). Frequency recommendations varied greatly by exercise type. Duration recommendations ranged from 4 weeks to 1 year. In articles reporting repetitions (n = 66), the range was 1 to 120 reps/day. In articles reporting intensity (n = 59), descriptions included values for force, movement duration, or descriptive verbal cues, such as "as hard as possible." Outcome measures were highly varied across and within specific exercise types.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend inclusion of at least the frequency, duration, repetition, and intensity components of exercise dose to improve reproducibility, interpretation, and comparison across studies. Further research is required to determine optimal dose ranges for the wide variety of exercise-based dysphagia interventions.

Effectiveness of a guided self-help exercise program tailored to patients treated with total laryngectomy: Results of a multi-center randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of a guided self-help exercise program on swallowing, speech, and shoulder problems in patients treated with total laryngectomy (TL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This randomized controlled trial included patients treated with TL in the last 5 years. Patients were randomized into the intervention group (self-help exercise program with flexibility, range-of-motion and lymphedema exercises and self-care education program) or control group (self-care education program). Both groups completed measurements before and 3 and 6-months after randomization. The primary outcome was swallowing problems (SWAL-QOL). Secondary outcomes were speech problems (SHI), shoulder problems (SDQ), self-management (patient activation: PAM) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL: EORTC QLQ-C30/H&N35). Adherence was defined as moderate-high in case a patient exercised >1 per day. Linear mixed model analyses were conducted to investigate the effectiveness of the intervention and to investigate whether neck dissection, treatment indication (primary/salvage TL), time since treatment, severity of problems, and preferred format (online/booklet) moderated the effectiveness.

RESULTS

Moderate-high adherence to the exercise program was 59%. The intervention group (n = 46) reported less swallowing and communication problems over time compared to the control group (n = 46) (p-value = 0.013 and 0.004). No difference was found on speech, shoulder problems, patient activation and HRQOL. Time since treatment moderated the effectiveness on speech problems (p-value = 0.025): patients within 6 months after surgery benefitted most from the intervention. Being treated with a neck dissection, treatment indication, severity of problems and format did not moderate the effectiveness.

CONCLUSION

The guided self-help exercise program improves swallowing and communication.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NTR5255.

Late Dysphagia Following Radiotherapy After Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Case Series

Purpose Standard treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is radiation therapy (RT); however, long-term effects of RT frequently include significant swallowing impairments (dysphagia; Gaziano, 2002; Hui, Chan, & Le, 2018). Our objective was to describe swallowing physiology in consecutive outpatients with a history of NPC following RT using standardized methods. Understanding dysphagia characteristics in this patient population could ultimately inform rehabilitation strategies and improve patient outcomes. Method We conducted a retrospective, observational, descriptive study of consecutive outpatients undergoing videofluoroscopic swallowing (VFS) exams at our clinic, from 2009 to 2014. We included those with a diagnosis of NPC treated with RT. Those with other cancer diagnoses; previous tracheostomy; acute neurological injury; and progressive, degenerative neurological conditions were excluded. Two registered MBSImP clinicians, blinded to each other, reviewed and scored the VFS exams according to previously published methods (Martin-Harris et al., 2008). Following unblinding, a single reviewer collected demographic data from the electronic medical record. We reported overall impairment and MBSImP component scores descriptively. Results Of 158 outpatients undergoing VFS, 6 (N) met our inclusion criteria. The median time from completion of RT to outpatient VFS was 21.0 years. Patients reported a variety of dysphagia symptoms. All patients had high oral and pharyngeal residue scores (scores ≥ 2) and high impairment scores on components contributing to bolus transport and airway closure. Conclusions All patients presented with impairments in oral-pharyngeal bolus transport and airway protection. Our results identify specific swallowing impairments for this patient group highlighting possible latent RT effects on swallowing. This population would benefit from dysphagia rehabilitation and maintenance programs informed by multimodal diagnostic approaches.

Clinical Evaluation and Management of Cancer Survivors with Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome

OBJECTIVES

To define radiation fibrosis and radiation fibrosis syndrome; review the basics of radiotherapy, the pathophysiology of radiation injury, and the principles of clinical evaluation and management of the common late effects resulting from radiation therapy for cancer treatment.

DATA SOURCES

Peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, Internet.

CONCLUSION

There is no cure for radiation fibrosis syndrome, but supportive treatment of its clinical sequelae can potentially result in improved function and quality of life.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

The sequelae of radiation fibrosis syndrome can often be improved with early detection and supportive care by a multidisciplinary team including cancer rehabilitation physiatrists, oncologists, oncology nurses, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language pathologists.

Efficacy of exercise therapy during radiotherapy to prevent reduction in mouth opening in patients with head and neck cancer: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of 2 protocols of exercise therapy to avoid reduction in mouth opening (MO) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a randomized, controlled, double-blind, 3-arm, parallel-group, prevention clinical trial. Ninety patients were randomized into 3 groups to perform exercises during radiotherapy treatment: intervention group 1 (G1); intervention group 2 (G2); and control group (CG). Maximum MO was measured before (T0), immediately after (T1), and at 12 months (T2) after completion of radiotherapy treatment. Generalized estimating equations model complemented by the least significant difference test was applied to group comparisons.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in MO measure between the groups at the 3 assessment time points (P = .264). The difference in MO measure from baseline to 12 months after having completed radiotherapy was -1 mm in CG (95% confidence interval [CI] -4.0 to 2.0); 1.3 mm in G1 (95% CI -1.7 to 4.3); and 0.5 mm in G2 (95% CI -3.4 to 4.4).

CONCLUSIONS

It was not possible to conclude that the exercise protocols performed in this study are more effective than the usual guidance to prevent reduction in MO in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.

Effects of prophylactic swallowing exercises on dysphagia and quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer receiving (chemo) radiotherapy: the Redyor study, a protocol for a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Radiation-induced dysphagia is common in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Available evidence suggests that exercise therapy prior to oncological treatment could potentially improve deglutition and quality of life; however, a randomized clinical trial is needed to confirm this observation.

METHODS/DESIGN

The Redyor study is a single-blind randomized clinical trial designed to compare the effect of prophylactic oropharyngeal exercises on quality of life and dysphagia of 52 patients with HNC referred to the Radiotherapy Department. The intervention will consist of respiratory muscle training (3 times/day, 5 days/week, 21 weeks) added to the standard swallow therapy. All patients will perform the same exercise intervention, but at different times: before chemoradiotherapy (CRT; early intervention group) or immediately after completing CRT (late intervention group). The main outcome will be change in dysphagia severity assessed with the Penetration-Aspiration Scale in videofluoroscopy study; quality of life will be assessed with the EORTC-QLQ-C30 and its Head and Neck Cancer Module (QLQ-H&N35) at 3, 6, and 12 months after completing CRT.

DISCUSSION

This ongoing clinical trial, registered in 2016, is based on the hypothesis that undergoing a pre-radiotherapy rehabilitation (pre-habilitation) program will have greater benefits (less decrease in quality of life, less delay in swallowing parameters, and less severe dysphagia) compared to post-CRT rehabilitation. The main objective is to assess dysphagia severity in HNC patients; and secondly, to evaluate changes in dysphagia-related quality of life, and to determine the correlation between a clinical variable and instrumental parameters during this period.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT0209009911 .

Effects of prophylactic swallowing exercises on dysphagia and quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer receiving (chemo) radiotherapy: the Redyor study, a protocol for a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Radiation-induced dysphagia is common in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Available evidence suggests that exercise therapy prior to oncological treatment could potentially improve deglutition and quality of life; however, a randomized clinical trial is needed to confirm this observation.

METHODS/DESIGN

The Redyor study is a single-blind randomized clinical trial designed to compare the effect of prophylactic oropharyngeal exercises on quality of life and dysphagia of 52 patients with HNC referred to the Radiotherapy Department. The intervention will consist of respiratory muscle training (3 times/day, 5 days/week, 21 weeks) added to the standard swallow therapy. All patients will perform the same exercise intervention, but at different times: before chemoradiotherapy (CRT; early intervention group) or immediately after completing CRT (late intervention group). The main outcome will be change in dysphagia severity assessed with the Penetration-Aspiration Scale in videofluoroscopy study; quality of life will be assessed with the EORTC-QLQ-C30 and its Head and Neck Cancer Module (QLQ-H&N35) at 3, 6, and 12 months after completing CRT.

DISCUSSION

This ongoing clinical trial, registered in 2016, is based on the hypothesis that undergoing a pre-radiotherapy rehabilitation (pre-habilitation) program will have greater benefits (less decrease in quality of life, less delay in swallowing parameters, and less severe dysphagia) compared to post-CRT rehabilitation. The main objective is to assess dysphagia severity in HNC patients; and secondly, to evaluate changes in dysphagia-related quality of life, and to determine the correlation between a clinical variable and instrumental parameters during this period.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT0209009911 .

Outcomes of Self-Esophageal Dilation for Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Introduction Dysphagia is common following treatment for head and neck cancers, and self-esophageal dilation is a safe and effective treatment method. Prior studies on self-dilation have reported only qualitative results and included heterogeneous populations with dysphagia. The objective of this study is to quantitatively assess the safety and efficacy of a self-esophageal dilation program for patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer with treatment-induced dysphagia. Materials and Methods This is a retrospective review of patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer treated at the University of Southern California from 2009 to 2013 with dysphagia following radiation treatment that persisted after swallow therapy. The treatment program consisted of swallow therapy in conjunction with weekly self-esophageal dilation at home with increasing size bougie dilators. Oral intake was monitored using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (Crary, Mann, & Groher, 2005), Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile Pharyngoesophageal opening score, and Penetration-Aspiration Scale (Rosenbek, Robbins, Roecker, Coyle, & Wood, 1996) pre- and posttreatment. Results Thirty-three patients met study criteria and completed the program. Twenty-five patients required nutrition via a gastrostomy tube prior to starting therapy, and 84% (21/25) of these patients were able to have the feeding tube removed. Median Functional Oral Intake Scale (Crary et al., 2005) predilation was 1 (range: 1-5), and postdilation was 6 (range: 3-6, p < .05). In addition, there was improvement of the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile Pharyngoesophageal opening score from 2 to 1 after treatment (p < .05). No complications were encountered. Discussion Home self-dilation with concurrent swallowing therapy is a safe and feasible procedure to be used in motivated patients with dysphagia following head and neck cancer treatment.

Early Postoperative Oral Exercise Improves Swallowing Function Among Patients With Oral Cavity Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Dysphagia remains an unsolved problem for patients with oral cavity cancer who have undergone surgery. This randomized controlled trial was conducted to determine the effect of oral exercise in addition to standard general care and diet counseling on the physiology of swallowing. Fifty patients (25 in each group) with oral and oropharyngeal cancer who underwent tumor resection, neck dissection, and reconstruction were enrolled in this study. The Rosenbek penetration-aspiration scale and modified barium swallow study were administered at 1 and 4 month(s) postoperatively. We observed significant improvements in the intervention group regarding the penetration-aspiration scale (P = .037), and oral and pharyngeal residue with thickened boluses (Nectar P < .001, Honey P < .001, and Pudding P < .001). In conclusion, oral exercise significantly improves the postoperative swallowing function of patients with oral cavity cancers.

Consensus and clinical recommendations for nutritional intervention for head and neck cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy in Taiwan

Because of the anatomical location, patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) frequently experience dysphagia and malnutrition at the time of diagnosis and these conditions are often exacerbated after chemoradiotherapy. There is an emerging medical need to establish a consensus on nutritional intervention for these patients. A panel of 30 senior physicians and experts from multidisciplinary teams drafted clinical recommendations to improve the management of nutritional interventions in Taiwan and to provide updated treatment strategy recommendations in hope of improving the nutritional status of patients with HNC. This clinical review describes the resulting consensus document, including the impact of malnutrition on clinical outcomes, the role of prophylactic tube feeding, the choice of tube feeding, and the benefit of oral nutritional supplements in patients with HNC undergoing chemoradiotherapy. The outcomes of this review will support clinicians in their efforts to improve the nutritional status of patients with HNC.

Randomised feasibility study to compare the use of Therabite® with wooden spatulas to relieve and prevent trismus in patients with cancer of the head and neck

Our aim was to compare the efficacy of the Therabite^® jaw motion rehabilitation system (Atos Medical) with that of wooden spatulas to relieve and prevent trismus in patients who have had radiotherapy for stage three and four oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Secondary aims were to assess the feasibility and the impact of exercise on health-related quality of life (QoL), and the use of health services after treatment. We designed a randomised, open-label, controlled, three-centre feasibility study to compare the effectiveness and cost of the Therabite^® and wooden spatulas. We studied compliance with exercises and health-related QoL, assessed cost using three health economics measures, and conducted semistructured interviews with patients. Patients were randomised into two groups: the Therabite^® group (n = 37) and the wooden spatula group (n = 34). All patients had some sense of jaw tightening before the study started. Mean mouth opening after six months increased in both groups, but the difference between the groups was not significant (p = 0.39). Completion rates for the three economic measures were good. There was no significant difference between the two groups in frequency of contact with care services or in QoL. Exercises during and after radiotherapy can ameliorate trismus in patients with stage three and four oral and oropharygeal cancers, but differences between groups in efficacy, compliance, QoL, or use of hospital or community health services, were not significant.

Long-Term and Latent Side Effects of Specific Cancer Types

Although many cancer survivors diagnosed with early-stage disease will outlive their cancer, they may continue to experience long-term and/or latent side effects due to cancer treatment. Many of these side effects are common and contribute to worse quality of life, morbidity, and mortality for cancer survivors. This article summarizes the treatment side effects for several of the most prevalent cancers in the United States.

Radiation-induced acute dysphagia : Prospective observational study on 42 head and neck cancer patients

PURPOSE

Acute toxicity in head and neck (H&N) cancer patients treated with definitive radiotherapy (RT) has a crucial role in compliance to treatments. The aim of this study was to correlate doses to swallowing-associated structures and acute dysphagia.

METHODS

We prospectively analyzed 42 H&N cancer patients treated with RT. Dysphagia (grade ≥ 3) and indication for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) insertion were classified as acute toxicity. Ten swallowing-related structures were considered for the dosimetric analysis. The correlation between clinical information and the dose absorbed by the contoured structures was analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression method using resampling methods (bootstrapping) was applied to select model order and parameters for normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) modelling.

RESULTS

A strong multiple correlation between dosimetric parameters was found. A two-variable model was suggested as the optimal order by bootstrap method. The optimal model (Rs = 0.452, p < 0.001) includes V₄₅ of the cervical esophagus (odds ratio [OR] = 1.016) and D_mean of the cricopharyngeal muscle (OR = 1.057). The model area under the curve was 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.69-0.95).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the absorbed dose to the cricopharyngeal muscle and cervical esophagus might play a relevant role in the development of acute RT-related dysphagia.

Therapeutic efficacy of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and electromyographic biofeedback on Alzheimer's disease patients with dysphagia

To study the therapeutic effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and electromyographic biofeedback (EMG-biofeedback) therapy in improving swallowing function of Alzheimer's disease patients with dysphagia.A series of 103 Alzheimer's disease patients with dysphagia were divided into 2 groups, among which the control group (n = 50) received swallowing function training and the treatment group (n = 53) received neuromuscular electrical stimulation plus EMG-biofeedback therapy. The mini-mental state scale score was performed in all patients along the treatment period. Twelve weeks after the treatment, the swallowing function was assessed by the water swallow test. The nutritional status was evaluated by Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) as well as the levels of hemoglobin and serum albumin. The frequency and course of aspiration pneumonia were also recorded.No significant difference on mini-mental state scale score was noted between 2 groups. More improvement of swallowing function, better nutritional status, and less frequency and shorter course of aspiration pneumonia were presented in treatment group when compared with the control group.Neuromuscular electrical stimulation and EMG-biofeedback treatment can improve swallowing function in patients with Alzheimer's disease and significantly reduce the incidence of adverse outcomes. Thus, they should be promoted in clinical practice.

Treatment of late sequelae after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer

Radiotherapy (RT) is used to treat approximately 80% of patients with cancer of the head and neck. Despite enormous advances in RT planning and delivery, a significant number of patients will experience radiation-associated toxicities, especially those treated with concurrent systemic agents. Many effective management options are available for acute RT-associated toxicities, but treatment options are much more limited and of variable benefit among patients who develop late sequelae after RT. The adverse impact of developing late tissue damage in irradiated patients may range from bothersome symptoms that negatively affect their quality of life to severe life-threatening complications. In the region of the head and neck, among the most problematic late effects are impaired function of the salivary glands and swallowing apparatus. Other tissues and structures in the region may be at risk, depending mainly on the location of the irradiated tumor relative to the mandible and hearing apparatus. Here, we review the available evidence on the use of different therapeutic strategies to alleviate common late sequelae of RT in head and neck cancer patients, with a focus on the critical assessment of the treatment options for xerostomia, dysphagia, mandibular osteoradionecrosis, trismus, and hearing loss.

Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version of the M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory for Head and Neck Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia is a common side effect of anticancer treatments in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) and can worsen patients' quality of life. A well-established measure is essential to evaluate dysphagia in HNC patients.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to determine the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI-C) for HNC patients.

METHODS

A total of 220 subjects were included in the study. Reliability was examined by internal consistency (Cronbach's α) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient). Validity was evaluated with Spearman correlations (r).

RESULTS

The Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficient of the MDADI-C were .923 and 0.942, respectively. The criterion validity of the MDADI-C was 0.777. The Spearman correlation coefficients of the MDADI-C with the European Organization for Research Into the Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire for Head and Neck Cancer (r = -0.851), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (r = -0.424), radiotherapy dose (r = -0.553), and treatment regimens (r = -0.407) demonstrated good construct validity (all P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The MDADI-C demonstrated good psychometric properties and would be a valuable tool for clinicians to screen dysphagia rapidly and evaluate its impact on the quality of life of HNC patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The MDADI-C could be used to document and monitor the dysphagia level of HNC patients for clinicians, nurses, and researchers. This validated questionnaire will help nurses and doctors to improve dysphagia management in HNC patients and will allow researchers to compare the study results across different countries.

Exercise therapy for trismus secondary to head and neck cancer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Effects of exercise therapy for trismus secondary to head and neck cancer have not been reviewed systematically since 2004.

METHODS

Four databases were searched. The quality of observational studies and randomized controlled trials was assessed.

RESULTS

Two hundred eleven articles were found, 20 studies were included. A large variation in research methodology, stretching techniques, duration of stretch, and repetition of exercises was found. The overall quality was moderate. Five of the 8 preventive studies found that exercises during (chemo)radiotherapy could not prevent a reduction in mouth opening. In 4 therapeutic case studies, mouth opening increased between 17 and 24 mm. In 8 other therapeutic studies, mouth opening increased between -1.9 and 13.6 mm. No exercise therapy was clearly superior to the others.

CONCLUSION

Changes in mouth opening ranged considerably and no stretching technique was superior to others regarding either prevention or treatment of trismus. Clinical guidelines cannot be given based on this systematic review. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 160-169, 2017.

Comparing dysphagia therapy in head and neck cancer patients in Australia with international healthcare systems

PURPOSE

The Australian healthcare system has invested heavily in multidisciplinary cancer care teams. Despite such investments, guidelines that clearly delineate standard of care dysphagia treatment are lacking and services provided to Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients are not always consistent. There is little consensus regarding the frequency and intensity of dysphagia therapy. This is largely due to a lack of well-designed clinical trials that establish the efficacy of any dysphagia therapy in this patient population. The aim of this study was to evaluate HNC dysphagia therapy patterns among Australian speech-language pathologists (SLPs).

METHOD

A 22 question internet-based survey was administered to a web-based professional interest group. Results were analysed by institution type and individual clinical experience.

RESULT

A response rate of 46% was achieved (67 out of 144 surveyed). This survey identified several aspects of dysphagia management that were provided uniformly in addition to many aspects of care that showed a lack of consensus.

CONCLUSION

By comparing the results of this survey with existing international best-evidence treatment guidelines, the development of uniform Australian guidelines may be facilitated. However, more authoritative data on dysphagia treatment efficacy is needed to provide uniform evidence-based HNC dysphagia treatment guidelines.

Improving swallowing outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer using a theory-based pretreatment swallowing intervention package: protocol for a randomised feasibility study

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of head and neck cancer (HNC) in the UK is rising, with an average of 31 people diagnosed daily. Patients affected by HNC suffer significant short-term and long-term post-treatment morbidity as a result of dysphagia, which affects daily functioning and quality of life (QOL). Pretreatment swallowing exercises may provide additional benefit over standard rehabilitation in managing dysphagia after primary HNC treatments, but uncertainty about their effectiveness persists. This study was preceded by an intervention development phase to produce an optimised swallowing intervention package (SIP). The aim of the current study is to assess the feasibility of this new intervention and research processes within a National Health Service (NHS) setting.

METHOD AND ANALYSIS

A two-arm non-blinded randomised controlled feasibility study will be carried out at one tertiary referral NHS centre providing specialist services in HNC. Patients newly diagnosed with stage III and IV disease undergoing planned surgery and/or chemoradiation treatments will be eligible. The SIP will be delivered pre treatment, and a range of swallowing-related and QOL measures will be collected at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months post-treatment. Outcomes will test the feasibility of a future randomised controlled trial (RCT), detailing rate of recruitment and patient acceptance to participation and randomisation. Salient information relating to protocol implementation will be collated and study material such as the case report form will be tested. A range of candidate outcome measures will be examined for suitability in a larger RCT.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was obtained from an NHS Research Ethics Committee. Findings will be published open access in a peer-reviewed journal, and presented at relevant conferences and research meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN40215425; Pre-results.

Swallowing interventions for the treatment of dysphagia after head and neck cancer: a systematic review of behavioural strategies used to promote patient adherence to swallowing exercises

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia is a significant side-effect following treatment for head and neck cancers, yet poor adherence to swallowing exercises is frequently reported in intervention studies. Behaviour change techniques (BCTs) can be used to improve adherence, but no review to date has described the techniques or indicated which may be more associated with improved swallowing outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify behavioural strategies in swallowing interventions, and to explore any relationships between these strategies and intervention effects. Randomised and quasi-randomised studies of head and neck cancer patients were included. Behavioural interventions to improve swallowing were eligible provided a valid measure of swallowing function was reported. A validated and comprehensive list of 93 discrete BCTs was used to code interventions. Analysis was conducted via a structured synthesis approach.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies (8 randomised) were included, and 20 different BCTs were each identified in at least one intervention. The BCTs identified in almost all interventions were: instruction on how to perform the behavior, setting behavioural goals and action planning. The BCTs that occurred more frequently in effective interventions, were: practical social support, behavioural practice, self-monitoring of behaviour and credible source for example a skilled clinician delivering the intervention. The presence of identical BCTs in comparator groups may diminish effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Swallowing interventions feature multiple components that may potentially impact outcomes. This review maps the behavioural components of reported interventions and provides a method to consistently describe these components going forward. Future work may seek to test the most effective BCTs, to inform optimisation of swallowing interventions.

Impact of Compliance on Dysphagia Rehabilitation in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Results from a Multi-center Clinical Trial

A 5-year, 16-site, randomized controlled trial enrolled 170 HNC survivors into active (estim + swallow exercise) or control (sham estim + swallowing exercise) arms. Primary analyses showed that estim did not enhance swallowing exercises. This secondary analysis determined if/how patient compliance impacted outcomes. A home program, performed 2 times/day, 6 days/week, for 12 weeks included stretches and 60 swallows paired with real or sham estim. Regular clinic visits ensured proper exercise execution, and detailed therapy checklists tracked patient compliance which was defined by mean number of sessions performed per week (0-12 times) over the 12-week intervention period. "Compliant" was defined as performing 10-12 sessions/week. Outcomes were changes in PAS, HNCI, PSS, OPSE, and hyoid excursion. ANCOVA analyses determined if outcomes differed between real/sham and compliant/noncompliant groups after 12 weeks of therapy. Of the 170 patients enrolled, 153 patients had compliance data. The mean number of sessions performed was 8.57/week (median = 10.25). Fifty-four percent of patients (n = 83) were considered "compliant." After 12 weeks of therapy, compliant patients in the sham estim group realized significantly better PAS scores than compliant patients in the active estim group (p = 0.0074). When pooling all patients together, there were no significant differences in outcomes between compliant and non-compliant patients. The addition of estim to swallowing exercises resulted in worse swallowing outcomes than exercises alone, which was more pronounced in compliant patients. Since neither compliant nor non-compliant patients benefitted from swallowing exercises, the proper dose and/or efficacy of swallowing exercises must also be questioned in this patient population.

Therapeutic intervention in oropharyngeal dysphagia

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a frequent consequence of several medical aetiologies, and even considered part of the normal ageing process. Early and accurate identification provides the opportunity for early implementation of dysphagia treatments. This Review describes the current state of the evidence related to dysphagia therapies - focusing on treatments most clinically utilized and of current interest to researchers. Despite successes in select studies, the level of evidence to support the efficacy of these treatments remains limited. Heterogeneity exists across studies in both how interventions are administered and how their therapeutic value is assessed, thereby making it difficult to establish external validation. Future work needs to address these caveats. Also, to be most efficacious, dysphagia therapies need to account for influences from pre-morbid patient characteristics as these factors have potential to increase the risk of dysphagia and the resulting complications of aspiration, malnutrition and psychological burden. Dysphagia therapies therefore need to incorporate the medical aetiology that is at its root, the resulting swallow physiology captured from comprehensive clinical and/or instrumental assessments, and the existing needs and supports of patients.

Trismus in patients with head and neck cancer: etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and management

BACKGROUND

Trismus indicates severely restricted mouth opening of any aetiology. A mouth opening of 35 mm or less should be regarded as trismus. Aim of this study was to review the etiopathogenesis, incidence, treatment and prevention of trismus in patients with head and neck cancer.

OBJECTIVE OF REVIEW

Trismus is frequently seen in patients suffering from malignant tumours of the head and neck. The reported prevalence of trismus in those patients varies considerably in the literature and ranges from 0 to 100% depending on the tumour site and extension. Trismus may worsen or remain the same over time, or the symptoms may reduce, even in the absence of treatment. When a patient presents with trismus after tumour treatment, it is important to determine whether the trismus is the result of the treatment, or is the first sign of a recurrence. Restricted mouth opening may impede inspection of the oral cavity as needed for dental care, and particularly for oncologic follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Mouth opening after radiotherapy (RT) decreases on average by approximately 20% compared to mouth opening prior to RT. The prevalence of trismus increases with increasing doses of RT to mastication structures. The use of intensity-modulated RT seems to lower the percentage and severity of RT-induced trismus. Treatment of trismus can be conservative (with either medical or physical therapy) or surgical. Exercise therapy is the mainstay of treatment and exercise should start as soon as possible after treatment. The prevention of trismus, rather than its treatment, is the most important objective.