{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Effects of chemoradiation and tongue exercise on swallow biomechanics and bolus kinematics.
{Author}: Schaen-Heacock NE;Rowe LM;Ciucci MR;Russell JA;
{Journal}: Head Neck
{Volume}: 0
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 Aug 16
{Factor}: 3.821
{DOI}: 10.1002/hed.27899
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Common treatments for head and neck cancer (radiation and chemotherapy) can lead to dysphagia; tongue exercise is a common intervention. This study aimed to assess swallow biomechanics and bolus kinematics using a well-established rat model of radiation or chemoradiation treatment to the tongue base, with or without tongue exercise intervention.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Pre- and post-treatment videofluoroscopy was conducted on 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats treated with radiation/chemoradiation and exercise/no exercise. Rats in the exercise groups completed a progressive resistance tongue training paradigm. Swallow biomechanics, bolus kinematics, jaw opening, and post-swallow respiration were assessed.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Both treatments impacted outcome measures; the addition of exercise intervention showed benefit for some measures, particularly in rats treated with radiation, vs. chemoradiation.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Radiation and chemoradiation can significantly affect aspects of deglutition; combined treatment may result in worse outcomes. Tongue exercise intervention can mitigate deficits; more intensive intervention may be warranted in proportion to combined treatment.