Functional outcomes and quality of life after a 6-month early intervention program for oral cancer survivors: a single-arm clinical trial

Background: Advanced treatment of oral cancer increases survival rates; however, it also increases the risk of developing shoulder dysfunction, dysphagia, oral dysfunction, donor site morbidity and psychological issues. This single-arm preliminary pilot study aims to explore the effects of a six-month early intervention program following reconstructive surgery in oral cancer survivors. Methods: A total of 65 participants were analyzed following reconstructive surgery. Outcome measurements were taken during the first visit, and at one, three and six months after reconstructive surgery. Results: Scapular muscle strength and shoulder range of motion progressively improved during the 6-month follow-up. The mean Disability of the Arms, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score showed significant improvement at 1 month (p < .001). Health related QoL showed significant differences between baseline and 6-months post-surgery scores on global health and on most of the function and symptom scales. The predicted return-to-work rate was 80% at one year after the operation. Return-to-work rate differs in different vocational types, with a higher rate of return in the skilled or semi-skilled (87.5%) and self-employed (86.7%). Conclusions: We suggest that early integrated intervention program with a follow-up of at least six months following reconstructive surgery may help develop and identify intervention guidelines and goals in the initial six months of treatment following neck dissection in oral cancer survivors.