Swallowing efficacy in patients undergoing mandibulectomy performed pre-operative tongue and swallowing-associated muscle exercises

Abstract

Objectives: Swallowing difficulty are a common outcome following surgical treatment for pathologic jaw bone resection. This randomized controlled trial investigated the impact of pre-operative tongue and swallowing-associated muscle exercises on tongue strength and swallowing capacity in patients undergoing mandibular surgery. Methods: Seven patients were randomized into two groups: Group 1 performed exercises only post-surgery, while Group 2 performed exercises both pre- and post-surgery. Tongue strength, the Repetitive Saliva Swallowing Test (RSST), and the Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI) were evaluated at baseline, one day before surgery, as well as 1, 2, and 3 months following the surgical procedure. Results: There were no significant differences in tongue strength and RSST between or within groups (p>0.05). However, Group 2 exhibited significant improvements in total DHI scores at the 4th (p=0.031) and 5th (p=0.034) visits. Improvements were also noted in the physical domain (3rd visit; p=0.048), functional domain (4th and 5th visits; p=0.034), and self-perceived dysphagia (4th visit; p=0.031). Conclusions: pre-operative tongue and swallowing exercises did not significantly improve tongue strength or swallowing capacity but positively impacted patients' quality of life, particularly in the physical and functional domains and self-perceived dysphagia.