The behavior of laryngectomees in respect to their body image

Abstract

This study aims at evaluating the behavior of total laryngectomees about their body image. Data were collected among 15 patients by means of an instrument that focused on the description of the social characteristics of the subjects and affirmative sentences, with agreement and disagreement responses, in relation to the attitudes as to their altered body image. The participants were mostly males (87%), 60 years old in average, married (80%), retired (60%) or unemployed (27%). The surgery had been performed, in average, 2 years before, and 60% communicated by labial miming. The patients' attitudes showed that they look at themselves in the mirror (93%), avoid touching the operated area (73%) and are more attentive to their bodies (87%). The results showed that the patients' attitudes are conflicting: the negative attitudes reflect the difficulties of coping related to the altered image, whereas the positive attitudes relate with body and health care. As consequence of these attitudes for the patients' quality of live, we emphasize the importance of an effective rehabilitation program before and after the surgery, that includes the coping with the altered body image among its objectives.