Improving patients ’ experience of tracheostomy after microvascular reconstruction for cancer of the head and neck utilising an Apple iPad® to aid communication

Introduction: Communication after microvacular reconstruction of the head and neck for oral and oropharyngeal carcinoma is difficult, and the peri-operative period frequently necessitates a tracheostomy. Publications have demonstrated that this is a fearful time for patients with feelings of frustration, powerless, to concerns arising in an emergency situation. Our hypothesis was that by aiding communication utilising a touch screen tablet device (Apple iPad ®) that patient satisfaction with communication would increase.
Source: The British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Tags: P131 Source Type: research