Dysphagia in Thoracic Surgical Patients

Dysphagia in Thoracic Surgical Patients: Incidence, Risk-factors, and Health Related Outcomes

The proposed study seeks to determine the incidence of dysphagia and vocal fold mobility impairment (VFMI) in individuals undergoing throacic surgical procedures. It also seeks to determine the impact of postoperative swallowing impairment on health-related outcomes.

Swallowing impairment and VFMI are common, yet often overlooked, complications of thoracic surgical procedures. The true incidence of both dysphagia and VFMI in this patient population is unclear due to a lack of rigorous study using instrumental assessment techniques and validated outcomes in all patents undergoing thoracic surgery. The study is therefore aimed to determine the incidence of dysphagia and VFMI in this patient population and to characterize impairment profiles related to swallowing safety and efficiency. In addition, the study is also aimed to assess the relative impact of VFMI and dysphagia on health-related outcomes such as length of hospital stay, pneumonia, sepsis, reintubation, and discharge status

Inclusion Criteria:

• adults aged 18 - 90 years old
• undergoing planned or emergent thoracic surgery via clamshell and/or extended thoracotomy
• confirmed negative COVID-19 test
• willing to participate in postoperative swallowing evaluation testing.

Exclusion Criteria:

• individuals under the age of 18.
• pregnant
• or those testing positive for COVID-19
• Additionally, the inability to demonstrate appropriate alertness and cognitive status following the procedure will exclude a participant from participating in this study to ensure protection of vulnerable individuals.