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Published on: December 1, 2023
Quality of life after total glosso-laryngectomy
Leanie Engelbrecht1, Anita Van der Merwe
1Department of Communication Pathology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa. leanie.2305@vodamail.co.za
Abstract:
The article explores the quality of life of two participants who had undergone total glosso-laryngectomy as treatment for advanced tongue base cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and questions relating to the effects of treatment on physical, functional, social and psychological well-being were asked. Thematic analysis of the interviews was done to determine recurring themes in the answers of the participants. The findings showed that total glosso-laryngectomy has a significant impact on quality of life. A good quality of life can be maintained in a patient who has an extensive support structure and can achieve intelligible oral communication. Pre-operative counselling by a multi-disciplinary team is important for a person to make an informed decision regarding surgery for head and neck cancer. Shared decision making needs to be addressed in the South African service delivery context.
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