Abstract:
Background: Oral cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, posing considerable
challenges to patients’ physical health. The post-operative period following treatment for stage III
oral cancer is a critical phase that plays a pivotal role in a patient's recovery. Understanding
patients' physical experiences during this period is essential to provide effective care and support
that addresses their unique challenges.
Objective: To explore the physical experiences of patients with stage III oral cancer during the
post-operative period at the National Dental Teaching Hospital of Sri Lanka
Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi-structured, in-depth and face-
to-face interviews among 20 purposively selected participants who underwent surgical treatment
for stage ІІІ oral cancer at the National Dental Teaching Hospital. Data were analysed using the
thematic analysis method.
Results: Three primary themes conveyed patients’ physical experiences: bodily discomforts,
hurts, and adaptations. Discomforts consisted of pain, swallowing difficulty, sleep disturbances,
throat irritation, and drooling. There were reports of bodily hurts to the head, neck, shoulder,
throat, and surgical site. Both physical and psychological adjustments were needed to deal with
body adaptations to tube feeding, speech impairment, aesthetic changes, surgical wounds, and
scars.
Conclusions: Post-operative patients with stage III oral cancer confront a spectrum of complex
and subjective physical experiences, that could be explored under three themes. For the purpose of
promotion of meaningful recovery and improved quality of life, addressing these physical
challenges is in need of comprehensive and multidisciplinary care that includes pre-operative
education, continuous assessment, and supportive strategies
