Evaluation and Speech Therapy in Oncological Dysphagia and Paralysis of Recurrential Nerve: Case Report

Abstract

Background: Dysphagia is a frequent and serious complication of oncological pathologies. It can occur in head and neck neoplasms undergoing demolitive surgery; but also as a complication of radiotherapy treatments of the same district.

Aim: The description of this clinical case highlights how rehabilitation and speech therapy can improve oral nutritional skills.

Materials and Methods: An intensive multidisciplinary rehabilitation was performed initially in hospitalization and then in an outpatient setting with postural and pharyngo-laryngeal district exercises.

Conclusion: The results demonstrated an improvement in swallowing ability and maintenance of oral nutrition, albeit with modification of food consistency. There have been excellent results in improving the quality of life and maintaining the patient’s social and family skills.