Files
Abstract
The ideal timing of feeding tube placement for head and neck cancer patients is debated and no standard protocol has been established. The study aim was to determine if prophylactic gastrostomy tube (g-tube) placement prior to treatment for head and neck cancer patients improves their nutritional, clinical, and long-term quality of life outcomes. Using existing clinical head and neck cancer patient data from the VA Portland Health Care System and OHSU, a retrospective chart review of 230 patients was conducted to compare outcomes following a prophylactic versus reactive approach. We hypothesized head and neck cancer patients who received prophylactically placed feeding tubes would have improved nutritional, clinical, and long-term quality of life outcomes compared to patients who received reactively placed feeding tubes.