The Impact of Head and Neck Lymphedema on Swallowing

For the head and neck oncology patient, lymphedema is a common occurrence that will impact swallowing function, yet this factor has been largely not accounted for in the traditional speech pathology swallowing approach. This presentation will share one SLP's experience of learning about lymphedema in the head and neck region and present current literature that defines the impact of lymphedema on swallowing. The presenter will share her evaluation methods for both swallowing and lymphedema, as well as current treatment strategies.

Jacqueline Mojica, MS, CCC-SLP, CLT is a clinical specialist in speech pathology with 35 years of experience and

certified lymphedema therapist since 2023. She works at NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center as a member of an interdisciplinary head and neck oncology team. She works almost exclusively with head and neck oncology patients, which has allowed her to develop an expertise in management of speech, swallowing, and head and neck lymphedema disorders that impact this patient population.