Enhancing the recovery of head and neck oncology patients through early feeding

Abstract

Introduction/Aims Traditionally, head and neck cancer patients are nil by mouth (NBM) for 1-2 weeks post resection and reconstruction to reduce their risks of aspiration and developing a fistula. (1) We propose that patients may benefit from early feeding to improve their swallow rehabilitation and to reduce the duration of their hospital stay. The aim is that 100% of patients to be NBM for 2 days or less by June 2018.