Predictors of Gastrostomy Tube Placement in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation or Chemoradiotherapy: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Malnutrition is a major problem in head and neck cancer (HNC) with up to half of patients requiring gastrostomy tube (G-tube) placement. Predicting this need remains complex given mixed evidence surrounding its usage.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed to identify studies examining risk factors associated with G-tube placement following radiotherapy (RT) or concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in HNC patients.

Results

Sixteen retrospective studies were included (n = 11 015). The overall prevalence of G-tube placement was 44% with 76% of patients receiving reactive G-tube placement. Pretreatment dysphagia, pretreatment BMI < 18.5, and tumors in the hypopharynx were significant predictive factors for prophylactic G-tube placement. Type of chemotherap

SUBMITTER: Xiao JB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11816561 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature