Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Common treatments for head and neck cancer (radiation and chemotherapy) can lead to dysphagia; tongue exercise is a common intervention. This study aimed to assess swallow biomechanics and bolus kinematics using a well-established rat model of radiation or chemoradiation treatment to the tongue base, with or without tongue exercise intervention. METHODS: Pre- and post-treatment videofluoroscopy was conducted on 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats treated with radiation/chemoradiation and exercise/no exercise. Rats in the exercise groups completed a progressive resistance tongue training paradigm. Swallow biomechanics, bolus kinematics, jaw opening, and post-swallow respiration were assessed. RESULTS: Both treatments impacted outcome measures; the addition of exercise intervention showed benefit for some measures, particularly in rats treated with radiation, vs. chemoradiation. CONCLUSIONS: Radiation and chemoradiation can significantly affect aspects of deglutition; combined treatment may result in worse outcomes. Tongue exercise intervention can mitigate deficits; more intensive intervention may be warranted in proportion to combined treatment.
Source: Head & Neck
DOI: 10.1002/hed.27899
Institution: University of Wisconsin–Madison
Language: English
Subfield: Speech and Hearing
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,760
OpenAlex ID: W4401640526