Physical Experiences of Patients with Stage III Oral Cancer during the Postoperative Period at National Dental Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka

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