Adaptation to surgery for head and neck cancer

We examined the postoperative adjustment of 45 patients who underwent surgery for cancers of the head and neck: 23 who had laryngeal cancer, 18 who had oral cavity/oropharyngeal cancers, and 4 who had cancers of other sites. Patients were assessed preoperatively, and at 3 months and 9 to 12 months postsurgery. Interviews and questionnaires were used to assess depression, body image, limitations, pain, financial problems, need for help at home, and social interaction. Results revealed that pain, fatigue, weakness, and loss of speech were major concerns. Pain and financial concerns were worst at 3 months and then improved. Physical limitations increased steadily with time. Depression was a major factor in patients with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers. Of note, patients who underwent postoperative radiation therapy had the most difficulty adapting to their illness and treatment, with persistent limitations in function and social isolation. The implications of these findings are discussed.