The influence of school life on children who underwent limb-sparing surgery or amputation by childhood cancer

Abstract

 Influence of limb-sparing surgery or amputation for treatment of childhood cancer on the school life of children who underwent such surgeries. Due to medical advancements in the treatment of childhood cancer, the number of cancer survivors has increased. In this study, we aimed to clarify the influence of limb-sparing surgery or amputation on the school life and career choices of children who underwent such surgeries. We conducted a semi-structured interview with 13 people visiting the outpatient department at A Hospital, and analyzed the interview data using content analysis. We obtained 3 categories and 8 sub categories on the influence of such surgeries on career advancement and career course, and 7 categories and 22 sub categories on difficulties experienced due to the illness or treatment, with reference to school life. Findings revealed that children who took care of their lower limbs considered the presence of an elevator during school choice, and they considered means and distances to the school according to their ability to perform activities of daily living. In addition, the restricted activities after treatment had a significant impact on physical education, thus suggesting the need to provide support for physical education after returning to school.