Publications by authors named "M W van den Brekel"
Background: There is no consensus regarding the indication for postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) for T1- and T2-classified squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the external auditory canal (EAC) even with negative surgical margins. This study aimed to evaluate whether PORT provides additional benefits for these cases.
Methods: We collected retrospective data from fourteen international hospitals, including resected pT1- and pT2-classified EAC SCC with negative surgical margins.
Article Synopsis
- This study explored the long-term effects of using a device (SEA2.0) for swallowing rehabilitation in individuals who have had their larynx removed (laryngectomized).
- Seventeen participants were evaluated six months after initial training, revealing that while some aspects of swallowing improved from the start of the study, there was a decline in swallowing capacity compared to an earlier assessment after a rest period.
- Overall, although the benefits of rehabilitation were still noticeable long-term, ongoing exercise may be necessary to maintain these improvements, indicating a need for further research on the best practices for sustaining swallowing function.
Article Synopsis
- - The review investigates the role of pharyngeal high-resolution manometry (HRM/HRIM) in assessing swallowing issues in patients with head and neck cancer, highlighting its clinical relevance and usefulness.
- - Eight studies were included, showing that head and neck cancer patients with swallowing difficulties have lower pressure in the pharynx and upper esophagus compared to healthy individuals, which may be linked to their cancer and treatment.
- - While HRM/HRIM is not commonly used in clinical practice for these patients, the review suggests it could improve diagnosis and management of swallowing problems, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.
Comparison of Diffusion-weighted MRI using Singe-Shot Echo-planar Imaging (SS-EPI) and Split Acquisition of Fast Spin Echo Signal (SPLICE) Imaging, a non-EPI technique, in Tumors of the Head and Neck.
AJNR Am J Neuroradiol
October 2024
Background And Purpose: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) using single-shot echo planar imaging (DW-EPI) is susceptible to distortions around air-filled cavities and dental fillings, typical for the head and neck area. Non-EPI, Split acquisition of fast spin echo signals for diffusion imaging (DWSPLICE) could reduce these distortions and enhance image quality, thereby potentially improving recurrence assessment in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck region. This study evaluated whether DW-SPLICE is a viable alternative to DW-EPI through quantitative and qualitative analyses.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: To assess the effectiveness of audiovisuals in providing pre-treatment information to patients with cancer. Following the Six Function Model of Medical Communication, we distinguish between immediate, intermediate, and long-term outcomes.
Methods: A systematic search was performed in five electronic databases for quantitative studies comparing the addition of audiovisuals with standard care or alternative interventions.