Removable partial prosthesis combined with swallowing training is an efficient clinical solution for oral cancer post-operation patients with palatal defect and dysphagia: a prospective study

Abstract

Objective: Dysphagia is one of the major complications of oral cancer patients, and is disturbing thousands of patients worldwide. Our study aim to evaluate the clinical efficacy of prosthesis combined with swallowing training on palatal defect and dysphagia in post-operative oral cancer patients.

Materials and methods: Sixteen oral cancer patients with palatal defect and dysphagia post-operation were treated with removable prosthesis and individualized swallowing function training. Swallowing function of patients before and after treatment was analyzed and compared by videofluoroscopic swallowing examination. The severity of depression and life quality were evaluated by Depression Scale (SDS) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Head and Neck (FACT-H&N) scores, respectively.

Results: Oral transit time (OTT) significantly shortened after treatment (P < 0.01), and Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) scores was significantly higher after treatment (P < 0.001). Different consistency bolus showed different risk of aspiration. Thickened liquids were related to lower PAS scores (P < 0.001). SDS standard score was significantly lower after treatment (P < 0.05). The total score of FACT-H&N after treatment was significantly higher (P < 0.05). No patients came back for regressed swallowing function during the follow-up period (17.06 ± 2.376 months).

Conclusion: Removable prosthesis and swallowing training can significantly improve swallowing function, reduce depression degree, and improve quality of life (QOL).

Clinical relevance: Removable prosthesis combined with swallowing training is a cheap and effective method to improve QOL in patients with palate defect and dysphagia after oral cancer.

Keywords: Dysphagia; Oral cancer; Palate defect; Prosthesis.