Affiliation:
1. Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center of Stomatology Beijing China
2. Peking University Health Science Centre for Evidence‐Based Nursing: A Joanna Briggs Institute Affiliated Group Beijing China
Abstract
AbstractObjectivesThis study aimed to summarize the state of current literature and evaluate evidence for timing, methods, and effects of early intervention in patients after free flap reconstruction.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted in nine databases. The methodological quality of literature was assessed according to the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools.ResultsEight studies were finally included. Most studies started the intervention within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery with multiple swallowing training measures. The results of meta‐analysis showed that swallowing intervention could improve swallowing function (SMD = −1.03, 95%CI [−1.37, −0.69], Z = 5.95, p < 0.01) and the quality of life (SMD = 1.52, 95%CI [0.97, 2.07], Z = 5.43, p < 0.01).ConclusionEarly swallowing intervention can improve patients' swallowing function and short‐term quality of life. We can only summarize the basic consensus of the studies on early swallowing intervention, and rigorous trials are needed in the future.