Twelve-Month Outcomes of a Preventive Dysphagia Intervention in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer-A Randomized Study.

Petersson, Kerstin; Smith, Signe Rödseth; Johansson-Malmeling, Charlotte; Finizia, Caterina; Tuomi, Lisa · Head Neck · 2026

rct · Level II

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Abstract

Radiation-associated dysphagia is common after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer and may occur early or years later. The effect of preventive exercises might be undermined by poor adherence. To evaluate the effect of a simple preventive exercise protocol on swallowing function up to 12 months after radiotherapy. Patients were randomized to an active group (n = 45) or control group (n = 44). The active group performed preventive exercises including the tongue hold exercise. Assessments were conducted before radiotherapy and at 1, 6, and 12 months post-treatment using the Penetration-Aspiration Scale, DIGEST-FEES, and the M. D. Anderson dysphagia inventory. No significant differences were found between groups. However, participants with ≥ 75% adherence in the active group showed significantly less deterioration at 12 months on the penetration-aspiration scale. Overall, no significant effect on swallowing function was demonstrated. However, results indicate that high adherence reduces deterioration.