What is a clinically relevant difference in MDADI scores between groups of head and neck cancer patients?

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS: To describe clinically relevant between-group differences in MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) scores among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 1,136 HNC patients seen for modified barium swallow (MBS) studies.

METHODS: The MDADI was administered by written questionnaire at the MBS appointment. MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory global, composite, and subscale scores were calculated. Anchor-based methods were employed to determine clinically meaningful between-group differences by feeding tube status, aspiration status (per MBS study), and diet level.

RESULTS: Mean MDADI scores for the 1,136 patients were: emotional 65.8 ± 17.3, functional 68.1 ± 19.6, physical 60.1 ± 18.6, global 59.3 ± 28.3, and composite 64.0 ± 17.1. Three hundred seventy-eight patients (33%) were feeding tube-dependent; 395 (34.8%) were aspirators; 122 (11%) were nothing per oral (Performance Status Scale-Head and Neck [PSS-HN] diet = 0); and 249 (22%) ate unrestricted, regular diets (PSS-HN diet = 100). Statistically significant (P < 0.0001) between-group differences (feeding tube vs. no feeding tube, aspirator vs. nonaspirator, oral vs. nonoral diet, PSS-HN diet levels) were observed for all mean MDADI scores (global, composite, and subscales). A mean difference of 10 points in composite MDADI scores differentiated feeding tube-dependent from nontube-dependent patients, aspirators from nonaspirators, and distinct PSS-HN diet levels.

CONCLUSIONS: We identify that a 10-point between-group difference in composite MDADI scores was associated with clinically meaningful between-group differences in swallowing function.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4. Laryngoscope, 126:1108-1113, 2016.