2017 Volume 44 Issue 4 Pages 284-290
Purpose: This study aimed to examine time-dependent changes in upper limb dysfunction after discharge in patients with head and neck cancer, who underwent neck dissection surgery with preservation of the spinal accessory nerve.
Subjects: The subjects were 18 patients with head and neck cancer (mean age- 52.4 years).
Methods: Shoulder flexion range of motion (ROM), Shoulder abduction ROM, and grip strength were measured in the standing position. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was calculated. Shoulder flexion ROM, Shoulder abduction ROM, grip strength, and DASH assessment were performed before surgery and 3 and 6 months after surgery.
Results: At 6 months after surgery, flexion ROM, abduction ROM, and grip strength were equivalent compared with that preoperatively. However, the DASH score at 6 months after surgery was higher than the preoperative score.
Conclusion: Time-dependent changes in the DASH score after discharge tended to differ from changes in flexion ROM, abduction ROM, and grip strength. Therefore, activity and participation should be monitored after discharge.
