Dysphagia Therapy in Adults with a Tracheostomy: A Scoping Review Protocol

Abstract

Background Swallowing impairment (dysphagia) and tracheostomy coexist. Research in this area has often provided an overview of dysphagia management as a whole, but there is limited information pertaining to specific dysphagia therapy in the tracheostomy population. The aim of this scoping review is to provide detailed exploration of the literature with regards to dysphagia therapeutic interventions in adults with a tracheostomy. The scoping review will describe current evidence and thus facilitate future discussions to guide clinical practice. Methods A scoping review using the Joanna Briggs Institute and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews guideline will be used. Ten electronic databases from inception to July 2021and grey literature will be searched. From identified texts forward and backward citation chasing will be completed. Data extraction will compose of population demographics, aetiology and dysphagia therapy (type, design, dose and intensity). Number of citations and papers included into the scoping review will be presented visually. Discussion The scoping review aims to expand upon the existing literature in this field. A detailed description of the evidence is required to facilitate clinical discussions and develop therapeutic protocols in a tracheostomised population. The results of this scoping review will support future research in dysphagia therapy and provide the basis for development of best practice guidelines.