Abstract
Oral cancer patients require various types of management in the terminal stage, including oral intake restriction due to locoregional lesions, airway management due to neck lesions, and exposure of wounds due to tumor progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current state and environment of end-of-life care for terminally ill oral cancer patients by conducting a survey. We retrospectively surveyed terminal oral cancer patients who had visited the Oral Cancer Center, Tokyo Dental College over the past 12 years. During the observed period, 133 patients advanced to the terminal stage, with the primary lesion located in the mandibular gingival area in 51.9％ of cases, and locoregional recurrence being the cause of death in 35.3％ of cases. A total of 69.4％ of patients were able to receive care at their preferred location. Our hospital provided end-of-life care for many patients who required respiratory management.
To create a desired end-of-life care environment for the patient and family, it is recommended to modify airway management and nutritional management. We work together with various professions to facilitate shared decision-making and improve the quality of life for patients and their families, ensuring that they can have a satisfactory end of life in a suitable location. The Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare advocates advanced care planning （ACP） to comprehend and share patients’ values and life goals, potentially enhancing the quality of life for many oral cancer patients at the end of their lives.
