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Abstract
Fifty-one laryngectomees completed a structured interview that yielded data on (1) demographics, (2) illness and surgery variables, (3) social networks and support, (4) preparation at the time of surgery, (5) rehabilitation of communication and related problems, (6) lifestyle changes, (7) identity changes, (8) quality of life, and (9) psychological adjustment, assessed on a series of standard scales. Gender, surgical variables, and the extent of the patient's social support predicted the use of esophageal speech. Preoperative visits by fellow laryngectomees predicted later quality of life. Poor psychological adjustment was related to the length of time spent in the hospital after surgery, dissatisfaction with social support, and changes in lifestyle after surgery. Changes in identity also were predictive of both psychological adjustment and quality of life. The authors discuss these results in the context of laryngectomees' rehabilitative and psychosocial needs.