Minimizing Pathologic Aspiration in Patients Undergoing Esophageal and Lung Resections for Cancer

Aspiration by high risk esophageal and lung cancer patients with either preexisting or post-therapy/post-operative dysphagia leads to morbidity (pneumonia) and mortality following surgery. The aim of this study is to reduce pathologic aspiration and pneumonia in the perioperative period by providing an oral care and oral hygiene education to patients preoperatively. Patients enrolled in the study will be given a dysphagia screening questionnaire, an oral care package and oral hygiene education. Patients who screen positive for dysphagia will be referred to Speech Pathology for evaluation. The rate of postoperative pneumonia will be determined for those who participate in the study and will be compared to retrospective patient data from our institution.