Training patients to swallow safely during breathing after head and neck cancer treatment
Training Swallowing Initiation during Expiration: Impact on Safety and Efficiency Following Treatment for Oropharyngeal Head and Neck Cancer
This study is looking to help people who have had oropharyngeal head and neck cancer and struggle with swallowing by teaching them a new way to swallow that could make it safer and easier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10925161 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on helping survivors of oropharyngeal head and neck cancer who experience swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia. The study aims to train these patients to initiate swallowing during the expiration phase of breathing, which has been shown to improve safety and efficiency in swallowing. By using a randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial, the researchers will assess the effectiveness of this innovative training approach on airway protection and swallowing function. Patients will participate in exercises designed to enhance their swallowing mechanics in relation to their breathing patterns.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been treated for oropharyngeal head and neck cancer and are experiencing dysphagia.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of oropharyngeal head and neck cancer or who do not experience swallowing difficulties may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for patients by reducing swallowing difficulties and the risk of aspiration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches to swallowing training, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martin-Harris, Bonnie J — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Martin-Harris, Bonnie J
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.