Neck dissection following organ preservation protocols prolongs feeding tube dependence in patients with advanced head and neck cancer

5525 Background: Organ preserving strategies employed in the treatment of advanced stage head and neck cancer frequently result in significant organ dysfunction including dysphagia and feeding tube dependence. While the acute and chronic effects of radiation and chemotherapy are known to contribute to swallowing impairment, the effect of a neck dissection, performed 6–8 weeks following the completion of treatment is unknown. Methods: Retrospective review of Stage III/IV squamous carcinoma patients treated with primary radiation with/without chemotherapy and a post-treatment neck dissection, who remain free of locoregional or distant failure for a minimum of two years. Predictors of prolonged feeding tube dependence (>24 months following the completion of treatment) were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analysis. To determine the independent effect of neck dissection on length of feeding tube dependence, patients matched for covariates were also compared. Results: 79 patients treated at the Fox Chase Cancer Center between 1992 to 2003 were included in this study. 61 (77.2%) received chemotherapy and 37 (46.8%) underwent a neck dissection. The surgical specimen was positive for residual carcinoma in 12 patients (33%). 57 patients (71.3%) underwent placement of a feeding tube. The median time to removal of feeding tubes was 12 months [7–17 months, 95% CI]. Feeding tube-free status at 24 months was associated with use of standard radiotherapy (p = 0.031), N0 vs N+ neck stage (p = 0.041) and management without a neck dissection (p = 0.003). There was no association with age, T-stage, tumor site or use of chemotherapy. On multiple regression, only neck dissection remained a predictor of retained feeding tube at 24 months (p = 0.013). In patients matched for N-stage and treatment selection, those who underwent a neck dissections required a feeding tube a median of 36 months compared with 10 months for those without a neck dissection [32–57 months versus 7–13 months, 95% CI, p = 0.021]. The two year frequency of feeding tube dependence was 14/34 (41%) versus 3/30 (10%), respectively (p = 0.005). Conclusions: Neck dissection may contribute dysphagia experienced by head and neck cancer patients treated with organ preservation protocols. No significant financial relationships to disclose.