Factors influencing quality of life in laryngectomized patients

The aim of this study is to estimate the quality of life postlaryngectomy. A questionnaire was used. Fifty-six patients were enrolled answering 26 questions. The mean age was 60.2 (40-76) years and median post-treatment time 43 (7-120) months. The most frequent complaints of the patients were increased bronchial discharge (66%) and reduced olfactory function (63%). Communication problems with strangers was mentioned by 57% and with their family by 29%. With regard to the psychological status, 30% were ashamed of their voice, 32% were ashamed of their appearance, 42% stated that they were rather depressed, and 30% were feeling lonely. More than 3 out of 4 patients believed that their everyday life had been altered. Half of the patients experienced financial difficulties and 37% were not participating in social meetings outside their house. Statistical analysis was used in order to calculate the severity of each category of problems which the patient faced using the scale from 0 to 1. The average grade for functional disorders was 0.31, for communication problems 0.47, for psychological problems 0.29, for social problems 0.27, and for financial problems 0.51.