Speech and Hearing Sciences ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-15-2018

Abstract

The use of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes as an intervention strategy in head and neck cancer was investigated in this retrospective chart review. Twenty-five veterans met the inclusion criteria and were categorized into two groups – use of prophylactic percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and absence of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement. Medical charts were reviewed and data extracted included weight, swallow function, swallow exercise compliance, and physical and social quality of life for 2 years post-treatment. Month-to-month data were compared across the two groups with respect to weight, swallow function, swallow exercise compliance, and physical and social quality of life scores. While both groups had similar weight loss during radiation, the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy group had faster recovery to baseline. The percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy group had greater swallow deficits and better exercise compliance than the absence of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy group. More research is needed to guide clinical decision making for the use of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes to offset the effects of radiation on patients with head and neck cancer.

Degree Name

Speech-Language Pathology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Speech and Hearing Sciences

First Committee Member (Chair)

Phyllis Palmer

Second Committee Member

Richard Arenas

Third Committee Member

Lauril Sachet

Language

English

Keywords

head and neck cancer, quality of life, swallow function, dysphagia, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, university of washington quality of life

Document Type

Thesis

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