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Title: The feasibility of a targeted intervention to improve treatment related side-effects in patients with head and neck cancer in the early survivorship phase


Authors: 2, 3), Conor Bowe2, Grainne Sheill1, John Ed O Connell2, Julie Broderick1, Kelly Coghlan2, Orla Crowley2
Publication: Journal of The Irish Head and Neck Society - 2025
Issue: 3 Volume: 3
Published: February, 2025 View PDF

Background:
This study evaluates the feasibility of providing an education-based rehabilitation intervention targeting physical function in the acute surgical setting for patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods:
This single arm prospective feasibility study involved the provision of an exercise booklet and a once-off standardized treatment session 4-6 weeks post-operatively. Outcomes collected prior to surgery (T1) and 16-18 weeks post-surgery (T2) included lymphoedema screening questions, 30 second sit to stand test, upper limb function, quality of Life, and physical activity.

Results:
Participants (n=26) were 42% male, with a mean of 65.96 years (SD 8.99, range 44-80). Tongue cancer (n=10, 38%) was most prevalent type of HNC. A greater number of patients had positive subjective signs of lymphoedema at T2 (0%, T1 vs 46%,T2, p= 0.000512). The median DASH score of participants at T1 was significantly lower than scores at T2 (p=0.000488). There was no change to physical function or quality of life (p>0.05) between T1 and T2. In total 88% of participants (n=23) reported use of the booklet in their recovery.

Conclusion:
It appears feasible and acceptable to provide patients with head and neck cancer with a rehabilitation education session and booklet in the acute post-operative phase.

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