The major goal of this project is to study the impact of respiratory-swallow training, including the feasibility of adding a new home practice component, on the degree and durability of clinical outcomes essential for eating, drinking, health, and quality of life in veterans with OP HNC. 

Principal Investigator: 

  • Dr. Bonnie Martin-Harris

Collaborators:        

  • Dr. Kendrea Garand
  • Dr. Julia Lee
  • Dr. William Pearson
  • Dr. Charlie Strange
  • Dr. David Nesky

Aim 1. Directly train optimal respiratory-swallow phase patterning using RST and test the clinical efficacy and durability of the effect measured by change in functional oral intake status.

Aim 2. Introduce a HP component toward improved degree and durability of the RST intervention effect.

Aim 3. Elaborate the intervention impact of RST on swallowing physiology and airway protection.