Abstract |
Swallowing and intraoral sensation outcome were investigated prospectively after microvascular free-flap reconstruction. Forty-one patients with a large oral or oropharyngeal carcinoma underwent free-flap surgery usually combined with radiotherapy. The patients completed modified barium swallow, self-rating of swallowing, and 2-point moving discrimination preoperatively and at four time points during the 12-month follow-up period, and a plain chest X-ray one year after operation. Swallowing was impaired with respect to an objective and subjective measure after therapy. Rates for nonsilent and silent aspiration increased during the follow-up. Intraoral sensation deteriorated. Swallowing outcome was not related to sensation. One year after surgery, 86% of the patients ate regular masticated or soft food. Microvascular transfers offer a reasonable option for oral reconstruction. This study does not support the need for sensate flaps. Swallowing problems should be routinely sought and patients rehabilitated during a sufficiently long follow-up with videofluorography regardless of the patient's perception of swallowing.
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Authors | Mari Markkanen-Leppänen, Elina Isotalo, Antti A Mäkitie, Eija Rorarius, Sirpa Asko-Seljavaara, Timo Pessi, Erkki Suominen, Marja-Leena Haapanen |
Journal | Oral oncology
(Oral Oncol)
Vol. 42
Issue 5
Pg. 501-9
(May 2006)
ISSN: 1368-8375 [Print] England |
PMID | 16376135
(Publication Type: Evaluation Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Topics |
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Deglutition
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Male
- Microcirculation
- Middle Aged
- Mouth
(innervation)
- Mouth Neoplasms
(pathology, surgery)
- Neoplasm Staging
- Pharyngeal Neoplasms
(pathology, surgery)
- Postoperative Period
- Prospective Studies
- Plastic Surgery Procedures
(methods)
- Recovery of Function
- Respiratory Aspiration
(etiology, physiopathology)
- Sensation
- Surgical Flaps
(blood supply)
- Video Recording
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