Routine evaluation for aspiration after thoracotomy for pulmonary resection

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Pulmonology
• Surgery

Background:

• Oropharyngeal aspiration following thoracotomy for pulmonary resection is a significant concern.
• A routine evaluation protocol's role in managing this complication requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a standardized protocol for identifying oropharyngeal aspiration post-thoracotomy.
• To characterize patients at higher risk for aspiration after pulmonary resection surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection on patients undergoing thoracotomy for pulmonary resection.
• Postoperative day one clinical swallowing evaluation by a speech therapist.
• Referral for dynamic videofluoroscopic esophagram for patients failing clinical assessment.

Main Results:

• 22.9% of patients failed initial clinical swallowing evaluation.
• 17.8% demonstrated oropharyngeal aspiration on videofluoroscopic esophagram.
• Older age and head and neck malignancy were risk factors for aspiration.

Conclusions:

• Oropharyngeal aspiration affects a substantial portion of patients post-thoracotomy, potentially underreported.
• Implementing a routine evaluation protocol aids in identifying high-risk patients and increases awareness.