The impact of total laryngectomy: the patient's perspective.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the experiences of patients who had total laryngectomy from their perspective.


METHODS
Descriptive, qualitative study.


METHODS
Participants' homes or investigator's hospital office.


METHODS
10 patients after total laryngectomy.


METHODS
Data were collected by semistructured, open-ended interviews during a period of six months, with an interview topic guide built on the framework of the literature review. Data were analyzed with descriptive content analysis. Trustworthiness of the study was enhanced through the use of verbatim quotations, audible data analysis trail, and a reflexive approach.


METHODS
Patients' experiences of undergoing total laryngectomy.


RESULTS
Patients who have undergone a total laryngectomy report difficulties and concerns that are largely functional and psychological. The functional difficulties reported included descriptions of altered swallow, excess phlegm, speech difficulties, weak neck muscles, and altered energy levels. The psychological concerns reported included descriptions of depression, regrets, and personal resolve.


CONCLUSIONS
As a group, patients experience a broad range of problems well after completion of treatment, reinforcing the need for rehabilitation management for prolonged periods after surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses are suitably positioned to support this group of patients across the disease management trajectory, from the initial preoperative period to the postoperative period and through to the rehabilitative period and beyond.
Noonan
Brendan J
BJ
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, South Infirmary-Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Ireland. b.noonan@ucc.ie
Hegarty
Josephine
J
D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007494:Ireland; D007825:Laryngectomy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012944:Social Support; D013064:Speech Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires