Article

The aim of this study was to describe and define the rehabilitation
approach: 'Facial Oral Tract Therapy' (F.O.T.T.). METHOD: We defined the content
and process of the rehabilitation approach (F.O.T.T.) in a decision-algorithm
supported by a manual with supplementary material. The algorithm was developed by
a research occupational therapist and an F.O.T.T. senior instructor. We used an
inductive approach combining existing knowledge from:
F.O.T.T. instructors,
therapists trained in using the F.O.T.T. approach, and existing literature. A
group of F.O.T.T. instructors and the originator of the treatment approach Mrs.
Kay Coombes has given comments to and approved the algorithm. RESULT: The
algorithm consist of five flowcharts: 'one assessment' chart guiding the
therapist in the examination of the patient and four 'treatment charts', one for
each of the four areas of F.O.T.T.: swallowing and eating; oral hygiene;
breathing, voice, and speech articulation; facial expression, giving guidance on
interventions. The algorithm outlines all important components in the treatment
that the therapist should decide to use or not to use in the intervention. The
algorithm is supported by a manual with criteria of when to use which components.
CONCLUSION: This algorithm is designed to be a practical guideline to therapists
using F.O.T.T. in clinical practice and in educational settings.
The use of this
algorithm may support standardization of F.O.T.T. and thereby promote and
maintain the quality in the treatment. This in turn will facilitate research that addresses F.O.T.T. and outcomes.

Langue : ANGLAIS