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Gastrostomy tube placement in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer treated with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy: Factors affecting placement and dependence

2013; Wiley; Volume: 35; Issue: 11 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1002/hed.23199

1097-0347

Mihir K. Bhayani, Katherine A. Hutcheson, Denise A. Barringer, Dianna Roberts, Jan S. Lewin, Stephen Y. Lai,

Dysphagia Assessment and Management

Background Placement of gastrostomy tubes (g-tubes) in patients with hypopharyngeal cancers undergoing radiation and chemotherapy is generally empirically determined. We examined our experience to identify predictive factors for g-tube placement and length of dependence. Methods We performed a retrospective review of all patients with primary hypopharyngeal cancer treated with nonsurgical modalities at a tertiary care center between 2002 and 2008. Rates of g-tube placement and length of dependence on enteral feedings were analyzed in relationship to multiple risk factors. Results Forty-three patients with hypopharyngeal primary tumors (77%) who had a complete response at the primary site after treatment were included. Thirteen patients (30%) never required g-tube placement. At 1-year follow-up, 11 patients (28%) maintained a g-tube. No clinical variables were significantly associated with g-tube placement. Duration of g-tube dependence was significantly longer in patients with a posterior hypopharyngeal wall primary tumors (p = .026), current smokers (p = .001), and patients with >40 pack-years (p = .010). The duration of g-tube dependence was significantly shorter in those who maintained oral intake at the end of treatment (p = .05), and those who reported adherence to dysphagia exercise regimens (p = .048). Conclusion Approximately one third of patients with hypopharyngeal tumors treated on organ preservation regimens may be able to avoid g-tube placement, but further research is needed to identify clinical factors that predict g-tube placement in this population. A posterior hypopharyngeal wall primary and smoking history correlated with longer gastrostomy tube dependence. Adherence to aggressive targeted swallowing exercise regimens may help to prevent long-term dependence on feeding tubes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 35: 1641–1646, 2013