Abstract
Background and Purpose : Postoperative facial deformity and oral dysfunction may strongly and adversely affect the daily lives of oral cancer patients. We studied their posthospitalization influence on these patients and the problems these patients face. Materials and Methods : Subjects were 5-oral cancer outpatients experiencing postoperative facial deformity and oral dysfunction due to jaw resection whom we interviewed 5 to 16 months after hospital discharge based on questionnaires about their lives and problems. Answers in interviews were analyzed qualitatively and inductively using the K-J method. Results : We classified answers into physical, mental, lifestyle conditions, and medical staff support. Conclusions : Patients with disorders involving facial deformity and oral dysfunction acquired coping concepts and techniques to adapt to their conditions. Our results suggested that assistance in adapting to and coping with their roles was important and depended on the attention, listening, informed consent, and comfort in their relationships with medical staff.
