Physician Extenders in an Outpatient Otolaryngology Setting

Abstract

89%), salivary function (59% vs 79%), subcutaneous fibrosis (97% vs 75%). Concerning long term dysphagia: some discomfort (22% vs 39%), soft diet required (42% vs 28%), fluids only and naso-gastric tube feeding (11% vs 4%); patients with severe dysphagia and taste impairment showed higher levels of anxiety (pϽ0.05): dysphagia influences the QoL, fatigue and physical-social functioning. Severe salivary function impairment is related only with troubles in social eating and contacts, without effects on QoL. MADRS depression was 56% vs 46%, HADS anxiety was 22% vs 21%. CONCLUSION: A different pattern of long term toxicity was observed in SϩRTvsCTϩRT. Anxiety rate is lower, depression is present in half of patients and is statistically related with dysphagia.