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.

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