Effect of swallowing training on dysphagia and depression in postoperative tongue cancer patients.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of swallowing training on dysphagia and depression in postoperative tongue cancer patients.

METHOD: Fifty-eight tongue cancer patients aged 45-81 years participated in the present study. All patients were scheduled to undergo partial tongue resection and flap rehabilitation. Changes in dysphagia and depression before and after swallowing training were measured. The water swallow test (WST) and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to evaluate the severity of dysphagia and depression, respectively.

RESULTS

The WST level and SDS scores in the less than 50% tongue resection and rehabilitation group were significantly lower than those of the greater than 50% group. The WST level and SDS scores of the early tumor stage group were significantly lower than those of the advanced tumor stage group. WST levels and SDS scores before swallowing training were significantly greater than those measured after swallowing training. In all cases, lower WST levels were associated with lower SDS scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative dysphagia, depression and anxiety were improved after swallowing training. Early identification and management of dysphagia can improve treatment outcomes and reduce depression.