Optimizing presurgical education for patients with head and neck cancer receiving laryngectomy and free flap surgery: A qualitative study

BackgroundThere has been limited study of oncology professionals' perspectives on optimizing delivery of presurgical education for individuals with head and neck cancer (HNC). Therefore, we assessed oncology professionals' perspectives about presurgical education for laryngectomy and free flap surgeries, which have a significant impact on patients' quality of life.MethodsInterviews were conducted with 27 oncology professionals from an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a community oncology setting.ResultsParticipants identified six recommendations to improve presurgical education: (1) establishing preoperative consultations with allied health professionals; (2) educating patients and providers on the concept of team-based care; (3) optimizing education through multimodal strategies; (4) connecting patients with other HNC surgical patients; (5) preparing caregivers for their role; and (6) educating patients on insurance navigation.ConclusionsStudy findings demonstrate gaps in the timing, content, and mode of delivery for presurgical education and suggest strategies for further evaluation in future studies.