Factors associated with rehabilitation in head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancer patients must adapt to changes in facial structure and dysfunctions associated with breathing, eating, sensing, and movement following treatment. The impact of social support, mode(s) of treatment, and disfigurement and dysfunction on rehabilitation outcomes was studied in a convenience sample of 51 cancer survivors. The Sickness Impact Profile, a 136-item self-report instrument that elicited data in 12 activity of daily living areas was used to measure the dependent variable, rehabilitation outcome. Perceived social support was measured with the Personal Resources Questionnaire (Part 2). Facial disfigurement was measured based on the surgical procedure; nine dysfunctions common to head and neck cancer patients were measured on ladder scales and combined to provide a total dysfunction score. Facial disfigurement was not significantly associated with rehabilitation outcomes, but perceived social support and degree of dysfunction were significantly correlated with rehabilitation. No significant differences in rehabilitation outcomes between modes of treatment were found. Findings suggest a need for further research on rehabilitation strategies which improve outcomes for dysfunctions associated with head and neck cancer.