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Published on: March 1, 2015
Early swallowing intervention after free flap reconstruction for oral cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Jiaqi Xu1, Yongkang Zhu1, Hongyun Wu1
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
Objectives:
This study aimed to summarize the state of current literature and evaluate evidence for timing, methods, and effects of early intervention in patients after free flap reconstruction.
Methods:
A comprehensive search was conducted in nine databases. The methodological quality of literature was assessed according to the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools.
Results:
Eight studies were finally included. Most studies started the intervention within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery with multiple swallowing training measures. The results of meta-analysis showed that swallowing intervention could improve swallowing function (SMD = -1.03, 95%CI [-1.37, -0.69], Z = 5.95, p < 0.01) and the quality of life (SMD = 1.52, 95%CI [0.97, 2.07], Z = 5.43, p < 0.01).
Conclusion:
Early swallowing intervention can improve patients' swallowing function and short-term quality of life. We can only summarize the basic consensus of the studies on early swallowing intervention, and rigorous trials are needed in the future.
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