Change in tongue pressure in patients with head and neck cancer after surgical resection.

Tongue pressure is reportedly associated with dysphagia. This study investigated relationships among characteristics of head and neck cancer, tongue pressure and dysphagia screening tests performed in patients with head and neck cancer during the acute phase after surgical resection. Fifty-seven patients (36 men, 21 women; age range 26-95 years) underwent surgical resection and dysphagia screening tests (Repetitive Saliva Swallowing Test, Water Swallowing Test, Modified Water Swallowing Test and Food Test) and pre- and postoperative measurement of tongue pressure at 5 time points (preoperatively, and 1-2 weeks and 1, 2, and 3 months postoperatively).

Enhanced salivary secretion by interferential current stimulation in patients with dry mouth: a pilot study.

Objective: This pilot study tested the effects of submandibular and sublingual gland stimulation by interferential current stimulation (IFCS), a noninvasive mode of electrical stimulation.

Study Design: Three groups were enrolled in this study: 20 young adults, 19 older adults, and 21 patients with dry mouth. Four electrodes were attached to the submandibular area, and the secreted saliva was collected by using Salivette cotton rolls (Sarstedt K.