The Journal of otolaryngology
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Prospective randomized trial comparing the effect of early suturing of tracheostomy sites on postoperative patient swallowing and rehabilitation.
This study was designed to evaluate the effect of tracheostomy site suturing after decannulation on swallowing rehabilitation, the incidence of postoperative complications, the length of hospital stay, and overall cost saving in patients undergoing major head and neck cancer resections. ⋯ The suturing of the tracheostomy site in head and neck cancer patients after decannulation is a safe, effective, cost-saving manoeuvre that speeds the return of the patient's normal swallowing, promoting earlier discharge from the hospital.