Work

Investigating the requirement for nasogastric tube feeding following transoral robotic surgery for head and neck cancer in Oxford: a retrospective cohort study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives Transoral robotic surgery is a minimally invasive technique used in the management of head and neck cancer, though post-operative odynophagia can be a significant issue. There is debate about the necessity of elective nasogastric tube placement during the peri-operative period. This study examines the proportion of patients requiring elective nasogastric tube placement and evaluates whether pre-operative factors predict the need for nasogastric tube feeding. Methods Data from patients who underwent transoral robotic surgery in Oxford were analysed to assess correlations between pre-operative factors and nasogastric tube feeding. Results Fifty-three patients undergoing transoral robotic surgery underwent elective nasogastric tube placement; 43 per cent required the nasogastric tube for feeding or medication. Multivariate analysis showed significant associations between nasogastric tube feeding and sex ( p = 0.028), peri-neural invasion ( p = 0.024), tumour size ( p = 0.012) and concurrent neck dissection ( p = 0.019). Conclusion Although nearly half of the patients benefited from elective nasogastric tube placement, the remainder did not. Benefits and risks of elective nasogastric tube placement should be carefully considered.

Source: The Journal of Laryngology & Otology

DOI: 10.1017/s0022215125000076

Authors: Oliver Jones, Priyamal Silva, Stuart Winter

Institution: University of Oxford

Language: English

Topic: Head and Neck Cancer Studies

Subfield: Otorhinolaryngology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,550