The role of maxillofacial prosthetics for the surgically treated patient at National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers Journal Article


Authors: Rosen, E. B.; Palin, C. L.; Huryn, J. M.; Wong, R. J.
Article Title: The role of maxillofacial prosthetics for the surgically treated patient at National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers
Abstract: Objectives/Hypothesis: The current role of maxillofacial prosthetic care for head and neck cancer patients is not well understood. Additionally, perceived barriers for service provision are unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the current role of maxillofacial prosthetic care at National Cancer Institute (NCI)–designated comprehensive cancer centers and to identify perceived barriers to care. Study Design: Multicenter, cross-sectional survey of head and neck division leaders at NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers. Methods: Each head and neck division leader from the 47 NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers was invited to participate. The main outcomes of this study were: 1) to evaluate the current role of maxillofacial prosthetics for the surgically treated head and neck cancer patient within NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers and 2) to identify perceived barriers to care. Measured outcomes were obtained from an anonymous online survey and reported. Results: Twenty-eight of the 47 head and neck service chiefs responded (60% response rate). Respondents expressed preference for prosthetic rehabilitation for hard palate/upper gum, auricular, and nasal defects. Local flap or free tissue transfer was preferred for lower gum and soft palate defects. Cost-related factors were among the most reported perceived barriers to maxillofacial prosthetic care. Conclusions: Maxillofacial prosthetics have an important role in the rehabilitation of the head and neck cancer patient. Perceived barriers for services exist, particularly as it relates to cost. Providers should be aware that these issues are likely to be more severe in regional or community centers. Level of Evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 129:409–414, 2019. © 2018 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.
Keywords: cancer center; head and neck cancer; surgical oncology; maxillofacial prosthetics
Journal Title: Laryngoscope
Volume: 129
Issue: 2
ISSN: 0023-852X
Publisher: Wiley Blackwell  
Date Published: 2019-02-01
Start Page: 409
End Page: 414
Language: English
DOI: 10.1002/lary.27330
PUBMED: 30247745
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC6344240
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 1 February 2019 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Joseph M Huryn
    109 Huryn
  2. Richard J Wong
    416 Wong
  3. Evan Blake Rosen
    28 Rosen