Prophylactic Feeding Tubes for Patients with Locally Advanced Head-and-Neck Cancer Undergoing Combined Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy—Systematic Review and Recommendations for Clinical Practice

Abstract

The available evidence was insufficient to draw definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of prophylactic feeding tubes in the target patient population or to support an evidence-based practice guideline. After review of the evidence, of guidelines from other groups, and of current clinical practice in Canada, the multidisciplinary panel made consensus-based recommendations regarding comprehensive interdisciplinary clinical care before, during, and after cancer treatment. The recommendations are based on the expert opinion of the panel members and on their understanding of best clinical practice.