Implementation of submandibular gland transfer: A multi‐institutional study of feasibility and time to treatment

Abstract

Background

Submandibular gland transfer (SMGT) mitigates radiation‐induced xerostomia but has yet to be widely adopted. We evaluate the feasibility of incorporating SMGT at multiple academic institutions and report the incidence of treatment delay.

Methods

Forty‐nine patients were identified who underwent SMGT. Time points pertaining to diagnosis and key treatment events including SMGT, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation were extracted. Treatment delay was defined as either >60 days from diagnosis to definitive therapy or >6 weeks between surgery and adjuvant therapy.

Results

Median time from diagnosis to primary treatment was 42 days (IQR, 32‐54). Median time from surgery to adjuvant therapy was 33 days (IQR, 28‐47). Delay in starting treatment was observed in 7/49 patients (14%). Six patients incurred a delay in postoperative radiation therapy (6/19; 32%).

Conclusions

With appropriate care coordination, SMGT can be implemented into a clinical pathway with a goal of decreasing radiation‐induced xerostomia without increasing treatment delays.

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