Stradling EJ, Barnhart MK, Robinson RA, Mogg PJ, Ward EC, Smee RI. Implementing flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallow screening within annual cancer surveillance appointments to monitor for late-stage radiation-induced dysphagia: A feasibility study.
Head Neck 2024;
46:615-626. [PMID:
38151916 DOI:
10.1002/hed.27615]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Late-stage progressive decline of swallowing function after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC) is often difficult to monitor. This study examined the feasibility and clinical outcomes of speech-language pathology implementing flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallow (FEES) screening during annual cancer surveillance visits to monitor late-stage swallowing function.
METHODS
Patients >2 years post treatment who attended routine oncological visits underwent FEES screening. Feasibility (service data, stakeholder survey) and swallowing outcomes (oral intake, secretions, internal lymphedema, penetration-aspiration, and residue) were collected.
RESULTS
Screening was completed with 70% (50/71) of eligible patients. Medical staff and speech-language pathologists indicated the protocol was worthwhile and achievable to incorporate into practice. Almost all patients were willing to complete the protocol annually. FEES outcomes identified 84% with dysphagia versus only 26% self-reported dysphagia.
CONCLUSION
Findings indicate FEES screening incorporated into annual oncological reviews is feasible and effective at monitoring late-stage swallowing function following HNC.
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