Improving Dysphagia Quality of Life Outcomes in Patients Receiving Head and Neck Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy plays a critical role in the management of head and neck cancer (HNC), used as a primary modality, often in combination with surgical and chemotherapeutic options. Dysphagia, or a difficulty in swallowing, is a consequence of high dose radiation therapy. Both acute and late dysphagia can compromise the clinical outcomes of HNC patients, with respect to disease control and persistent, life-limiting toxicities. The opportunity to better understand dysphagia, its debilitative effects, and how to manage its onset is critical to achieving the optimal patient outcomes. This thesis investigates methods to better predict dysphagia onset enabling improved patient care.