Quality of life after total glosso-laryngectomy

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Authors

Engelbrecht, Leanie
Van der Merwe, Anita

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

South African Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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 the 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.

Description

Keywords

Physical well-being, Functional well-being, Social well-being, Emotional/psychological well-being, Glossectomy

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

Engelbrecht, L & Van der Merwe, A 2007, 'Quality of life after total glosso-laryngectomy', South African Journal of Communication Disorders, vol. 54, pp. 29-38. [http://www.saslha.co.za/default.asp]