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Chan EL, Rovira A. Head-and-neck Cancer in the Emergency Department: A Contemporary Review of Common Presentations and Management. J Emerg Trauma Shock 2024; 17:33-39. [PMID: 38681881 PMCID: PMC11045002 DOI: 10.4103/jets.jets_40_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Head-and-neck cancer (HNC) can present with life.threatening symptoms in the emergency department. Patients can sometimes be misdiagnosed with pulmonary disease due to similar signs and symptoms, ultimately leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially devastating consequences. Reasons for this include lack of awareness of patient risk factors and knowledge of the myriad of presenting complaints in the disease process among physicians working in primary care and in the emergency department. This article explores the contemporary risk factors and common presenting symptoms and discusses initial management for a patient with potential head-and-neck malignancy. Emergency presentations of HNC are wide ranging and can overlap with common respiratory pathologies. Clinician awareness of this can assist the team in deciding what appropriate examination and investigations are required to reduce the risk of delaying diagnosis and further treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ee Lyn Chan
- Department of Anesthesia, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone, UK
| | - Aleix Rovira
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
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2
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Geerling JI, van der Linden YM, Raijmakers NJH, Vermeulen KM, Mul VEM, de Nijs EJM, Westhoff PG, de Bock GH, de Graeff A, Reyners AKL. Randomized controlled study of pain education in patients receiving radiotherapy for painful bone metastases. Radiother Oncol 2023; 185:109687. [PMID: 37169300 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although short-course radiotherapy is an effective treatment for patients with painful bone metastases, pain is not always sufficiently controlled. We therefore investigated the additional effect of a nurse-led pain education program on pain control and quality of life (QoL). PATIENTS AND METHODS In this multicenter study, patients with solid tumor bone metastases and a worst pain intensity of ≥5 on a 0-10 numeric rating scale (NRS) were randomized between care as usual (control-group) and care as usual plus the Pain Education Program (PEP-group). PEP consisted of a structured interview and personalized education with follow-up phone calls. Patients completed the Brief Pain Inventory, EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL and BM22 at week 0, 1, 4, 8 and 12. The primary outcome was pain control, defined as the number of patients whose worst pain intensity was <5 on a 0-10 NRS after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes were time to reach control of pain (NRS < 5), mean worst pain and average pain, and QoL at weeks 1, 4, 8 and 12. RESULTS Of 308 included patients, 182 (92 PEP-group) completed 12 weeks follow-up. At 12 weeks, more patients in the PEP-group (71%) compared to the control-group (52%) reported pain control (P =.008). In the PEP-group, pain control was reached earlier than in the control-group (median 29 days versus 56 days; P =.003). Mean worst and average pain decreased in both groups but decreased more in the PEP-group. QoL did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSION The addition of PEP to care as usual for patients treated with radiotherapy for painful bone metastases resulted in less pain and faster pain control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenske I Geerling
- Centre of Expertise in Palliative Care, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yvette M van der Linden
- Department of Radiotherapy, Leiden University Medical Center, University of Leiden, the Netherlands; Centre of Expertise in Palliative Care, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands
| | | | - Karin M Vermeulen
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Veronique E M Mul
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen J M de Nijs
- Centre of Expertise in Palliative Care, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands
| | - Paulien G Westhoff
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Geertruida H de Bock
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alexander de Graeff
- Centre of Expertise in Palliative Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Anna K L Reyners
- Centre of Expertise in Palliative Care, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands.
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3
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Lovell MR, Phillips JL, Luckett T, Lam L, Boyle FM, Davidson PM, Cheah SL, McCaffrey N, Currow DC, Shaw T, Hosie A, Koczwara B, Clarke S, Lee J, Stockler MR, Sheehan C, Spruijt O, Allsopp K, Clinch A, Clark K, Read A, Agar M. Effect of Cancer Pain Guideline Implementation on Pain Outcomes Among Adult Outpatients With Cancer-Related Pain: A Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e220060. [PMID: 35188554 PMCID: PMC8861847 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE An evidence-practice gap exists for cancer pain management, and cancer pain remains prevalent and disabling. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the capacity of 3 cancer pain guideline implementation strategies to improve pain-related outcomes for patients attending oncology and palliative care outpatient services. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A pragmatic, stepped wedge, cluster-randomized, nonblinded, clinical trial was conducted between 2014 and 2019. The clusters were cancer centers in Australia providing oncology and palliative care outpatient clinics. Participants included a consecutive cohort of adult outpatients with advanced cancer and a worst pain severity score of 2 or more out of 10 on a numeric rating scale (NRS). Data were collected between August 2015 and May 2019. Data were analyzed July to October 2019 and reanalyzed November to December 2021. INTERVENTIONS Guideline implementation strategies at the cluster, health professional, and patient levels introduced with the support of a clinical champion. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary measure of effect was the percentage of participants initially screened as having moderate to severe worst pain (NRS ≥ 5) who experienced a clinically important improvement of 30% or more 1 week later. Secondary outcomes included mean average pain, patient empowerment, fidelity to the intervention, and quality of life and were measured in all participants with a pain score of 2 or more 10 at weeks 1, 2, and 4. RESULTS Of 8099 patients screened at 6 clusters, 1564 were eligible, and 359 were recruited during the control phase (mean [SD] age, 64.2 [12.1] years; 196 men [55%]) and 329 during the intervention phase (mean [SD] age, 63.6 [12.7] years; 155 men [47%]), with no significant differences between phases on baseline measures. The mean (SD) baseline worst pain scores were 5.0 (2.6) and 4.9 (2.6) for control and intervention phases, respectively. The mean (SD) baseline average pain scores were 3.5 (2.1) for both groups. For the primary outcome, the proportions of participants with a 30% or greater reduction in a pain score of 5 or more of 10 at baseline were similar in the control and intervention phases (31 of 280 participants [11.9%] vs 30 of 264 participants [11.8%]; OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.79-1.60; P = .51). No significant differences were found in secondary outcomes between phases. Fidelity to the intervention was low. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE A suite of implementation strategies was insufficient to improve pain-related outcomes for outpatients with cancer-related pain. Further evaluation is needed to determine the required clinical resources needed to enable wide-scale uptake of the fundamental elements of cancer pain care. Ongoing quality improvement activities should be supported to improve sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie R. Lovell
- Palliative Care Department, HammondCare, Greenwich, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jane L. Phillips
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tim Luckett
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lawrence Lam
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Frances M. Boyle
- Patricia Ritchie Centre for Cancer Care and Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Patricia M. Davidson
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
- University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Seong L. Cheah
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicola McCaffrey
- Deakin University, Geelong, Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Victoria, Australia
| | - David C. Currow
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Tim Shaw
- University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annmarie Hosie
- The University of Notre Dame Australia, School of Nursing Sydney and St Vincent’s Health Network Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bogda Koczwara
- Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephen Clarke
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia
- Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Jessica Lee
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Concord Centre for Palliative Care, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- University of Sydney, Concord Clinical School, Australia
| | - Martin R. Stockler
- Concord Centre for Palliative Care, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Caitlin Sheehan
- Palliative Care Department, South East Sydney Local Health District, Southern Sector, Sydney Australia
| | - Odette Spruijt
- Palliative Care Department, Western Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine Allsopp
- Palliative Care Department, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alexandra Clinch
- Department of Palliative Care, Peter Macallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine Clark
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia
- Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Alison Read
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Meera Agar
- IMPACCT Centre—Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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4
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Roberto A, Greco MT, Uggeri S, Cavuto S, Deandrea S, Corli O, Apolone G. A living systematic review to assess the analgesic undertreatment in cancer patients. Pain Pract 2022; 22:487-496. [PMID: 35014151 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This living, systematic review aims to provide an updated summary of the available evidence on pain undertreatment prevalence in patients with cancer; correlations with some potential determinants and confounders were also carried out. We updated a systematic review published in 2014, including observational and experimental studies reporting the use of the pain management index (PMI) in adults with cancer and pain, from 2014 to 2020. We conducted searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar. We performed univariate and multivariable regression analyses to describe the relationship between PMI and a list of potential explanatory variables. Twenty new papers were identified, yielding a total sample size of 66 studies. The proportion of patients classified as undertreated according to the year of study publication shows a higher decrease from 1994 to 2013 (-13% as relative change) than the most recent years 2014-2020 (-11%). The quality of the included studies has increased over the years (from 80% to 93%). At the multivariable analysis, a statistically significant relationship was confirmed between undertreatment and the year of the publication of the study and with a low-medium economic level of the countries where the studies were conducted. Despite the improvement when compared to the period 1994-2000,-still about 40% of the cases identified received an analgesic treatment inadequate to the intensity of pain, according to the PMI. Despite its intrinsic limitations, PMI continues to be widely used and it could allow a continuous monitoring of pain management across a different mix of studies and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Roberto
- Traslational Research in Gynecology Oncology Unit, Laboratory of Methodology for Clinical Research, Oncology Departement, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria T Greco
- Pain and Palliative Care Research Unit, Laboratory of Methodology for Clinical Research, Oncology Departement, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Uggeri
- Pain and Palliative Care Research Unit, Laboratory of Methodology for Clinical Research, Oncology Departement, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvio Cavuto
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Deandrea
- Prevention Department, Agency for Health Protection, Pavia, Italy
| | - Oscar Corli
- Pain and Palliative Care Research Unit, Laboratory of Methodology for Clinical Research, Oncology Departement, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Apolone
- Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
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5
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Bauman JR, Panick JR, Galloway TJ, Ridge JA, Chwistek MA, Collins ME, Kinczewski L, Murphy K, Welsh M, Farren MA, Omilak MC, Kelly J, Schuster KA, Lucas LA, Amrhein S, Bender FP, Temel JS, Egleston BL, El-Jawahri A, Fang CY. A Pilot Study of a Collaborative Palliative and Oncology Care Intervention for Patients with Head and Neck Cancer. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1673-1681. [PMID: 33848193 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Palliative care improves symptoms and coping in patients with advanced cancers, but has not been evaluated for patients with curable solid malignancies. Because of the tremendous symptom burden and high rates of psychological distress in head and neck cancer (HNC), we evaluated feasibility and acceptability of a palliative care intervention in patients with HNC receiving curative-intent chemoradiation therapy (CRT). Methods: This was a prospective single-arm study in HNC patients receiving CRT at a single center in the United States. The intervention entailed weekly palliative care visits integrated with oncology care with a focus on symptoms and coping. The primary outcome was feasibility, defined as a >50% enrollment rate with >70% of patients attending at least half of the visits. To assess acceptability, we collected satisfaction ratings post-intervention. We also explored symptom burden, mood, and quality of life (QOL). Results: We enrolled 91% (20/22) of eligible patients. Patients attended 133 of 138 palliative care visits (96%); all 20 attended >85% of visits. Eighteen of 19 (95%) found the intervention "very helpful" and would "definitely recommend" it. QOL and symptom burden worsened from baseline to week 5, but subsequently improved at one-month post-CRT. Overall, patients valued the one-on-one format of the intervention and receipt of additional care. Conclusions: Our palliative care intervention during highly morbid CRT was feasible and acceptable with high enrollment, excellent intervention compliance, and high patient satisfaction. Future randomized studies will further explore the impact on patient-reported outcomes and health care utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessie R Panick
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - John A Ridge
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Marie Welsh
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Lauren A Lucas
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sheila Amrhein
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Jennifer S Temel
- Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brian L Egleston
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Hematology-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carolyn Y Fang
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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6
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van Hoeve JC, Vernooij RWM, Fiander M, Nieboer P, Siesling S, Rotter T. Effects of oncological care pathways in primary and secondary care on patient, professional and health systems outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev 2020; 9:246. [PMID: 33100227 PMCID: PMC7586678 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-020-01498-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathways are frequently used to improve care for cancer patients. However, there is little evidence about the effects of pathways used in oncological care. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis aiming to identify and synthesize existing literature on the effects of pathways in oncological care. METHODS All patients diagnosed with cancer in primary and secondary/tertiary care whose treatment can be characterized as the strategy "care pathways" are included in this review. A systematic search in seven databases was conducted to gather evidence. Studies were screened by two independent reviewers. Study outcomes regarding patients, professionals, and system level were extracted from each study. RESULTS Out of 13,847 search results, we selected 158 articles eligible for full text assessment. One hundred fifty studies were excluded and the remaining eight studies represented 4786 patients. Most studies were conducted in secondary/tertiary care. Length of stay (LOS) was the most common used indicator, and was reported in five studies. Meta-analysis based on subgroups showed an overall shorter LOS regarding gastric cancer (weighted mean difference (WMD)): - 2.75, CI: - 4.67 to - 0.83) and gynecological cancer (WMD: - 1.58, CI: - 2.10 to - 1.05). Costs were reported in six studies and most studies reported lower costs for pathway groups. CONCLUSIONS Despite the differences between the included studies, we were able to present an evidence base for cancer care pathways performed in secondary/tertiary care regarding the positive effects of LOS in favor of cancer care pathways. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42017057592.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanda C van Hoeve
- Department Health Technology & Services Research, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands. .,Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Robin W M Vernooij
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Michelle Fiander
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | | | - Sabine Siesling
- Department Health Technology & Services Research, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.,Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas Rotter
- School of Nursing, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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7
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Bennett MI, Eisenberg E, Ahmedzai SH, Bhaskar A, O'Brien T, Mercadante S, Krčevski Škvarč N, Vissers K, Wirz S, Wells C, Morlion B. Standards for the management of cancer-related pain across Europe-A position paper from the EFIC Task Force on Cancer Pain. Eur J Pain 2019; 23:660-668. [PMID: 30480345 PMCID: PMC7027571 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Pain is a common symptom in patients who survive cancer and in those who live with progressive advanced disease. Evidence from meta-analyses suggests that pain remains poorly controlled for a large proportion of patients; barriers to good management include poor assessment of pain, inadequate support for patient self-management and late or inadequate access to strong opioid analgesia in those with advanced disease. METHODS The European Pain Federation (EFIC) established a Task Force in 2017 which convened a European group of experts, drawn from a diverse range of relevant clinical disciplines, to prepare a position paper on appropriate standards for the management of cancer-related pain. The expert panel reviewed the available literature and made recommendations using the GRADE system to combine quality of evidence with strength of recommendation. The panel took into account the desirable and undesirable effects of the management recommendation, including the cost and inconvenience of each when deciding the recommendation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The 10 standards presented are aimed to improve cancer pain management and reduce variation in practice across Europe. The Task Force believes that adoption of these standards by all 37 countries will promote the quality of care of patients with cancer-related pain and reduce unnecessary suffering. SIGNIFICANCE Pain affects up to 40% of cancer survivors and affects at least 66% of patients with advanced progressive disease, many of whom experience poor pain control. These 10 standards are aimed to improve cancer pain management, promote the quality of care of patients and reduce variation across Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael I Bennett
- St Gemma's Academic Unit of Palliative Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Elon Eisenberg
- Pain Research Unit, Institute of Pain Medicine, Rambam Health Care Campus and Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Arun Bhaskar
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Tony O'Brien
- Marymount University Hospital & Hospice, Curraheen, Ireland.,Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Ireland.,College of Medicine & Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Nevenka Krčevski Škvarč
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Institute for Palliative Medicine and Care, Slovenia
| | - Kris Vissers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Stefan Wirz
- Centre for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Medicine, Pain/Palliative Medicine, GFO-Hospitals Bonn and University of Bonn
| | | | - Bart Morlion
- The Leuven Center for Algology and Pain Management, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Belgium
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8
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Younger E, Husson O, Bennister L, Whelan J, Wilson R, Roast A, Jones RL, van der Graaf WT. Age-related sarcoma patient experience: results from a national survey in England. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:991. [PMID: 30333006 PMCID: PMC6192120 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4866-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sarcomas are rare, heterogeneous tumours affecting patients of any age. Previous surveys describe that sarcoma patients report a significantly worse experience than those with common cancers. Consequently, Sarcoma UK conducted a national survey and these data were examined for age- and tumour-related differences in patients’ experiences. Methods Patients were randomly selected from respondents to National Cancer Patient Experience Surveys (n = 900). Differences between patient groups according to age (Adolescents and Young Adults [AYA] 18–39 years, middle-aged 40–64 years, elderly 65 + years) and tumour type (soft-tissue [STS] vs. bone]) were analysed with t-tests or chi-square tests. Results Survey response rate was 62% (n = 558; STS 75%, bone sarcoma 25%). Delay in diagnosis was reported; 27% patients (n = 150) waited > 3 months and initial symptoms were incorrectly interpreted; AYA STS patients were significantly more likely to be treated for another condition, or advised that their symptoms were not serious, than older STS patients. Clinical trial participation was low (6%, n = 35). Symptom burden was high, most commonly daytime fatigue (48%, n = 277) and pain (44%, n = 248). AYAs were significantly more likely to report most side-effects and post-treatment concerns than older patients. Elderly patients were more satisfied with the information and emotional support provided than younger patients, however were significantly less likely to be referred to rehabilitation services. Conclusions This study identifies significant age-related differences in the sarcoma patient journey, which are not only related to variation in tumour-types. These results provide rationale for adopting an age-specific approach to the management of sarcoma patients in order to improve overall patient experience. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-018-4866-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olga Husson
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK.,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | | | - Jeremy Whelan
- University College London Hospital (UCLH), London, NW1 2BU, UK
| | - Roger Wilson
- Sarcoma UK Registered Cancer Charity, London, N1 6AH, UK
| | - Andy Roast
- Sarcoma UK Registered Cancer Charity, London, N1 6AH, UK
| | - Robin L Jones
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK.,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK
| | - Winette Ta van der Graaf
- Sarcoma Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, SW3 6JJ, UK. .,Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW7 3RP, UK.
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9
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Desmoid fibromatosis through the patients' eyes: time to change the focus and organisation of care? Support Care Cancer 2018; 27:965-980. [PMID: 30155568 PMCID: PMC6373240 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4386-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Desmoid fibromatosis (DF) is a rare, unpredictable disease with no established, evidence-based treatments. Individual management is based on consensus algorithms. This study aimed to examine the specific health-related quality of life challenges faced by DF patients, current experiences and expectations of care. Methods Twenty-seven DF patients were purposively sampled from The Royal Marsden Hospital. Two focus groups and 13 interviews (males 12, females 15; mean age at study 39.5 years) explored health-related quality of life issues and experiences of healthcare. Thematic content was analysed. Results Discussions revealed four key themes (diagnostic pathway; treatment pathway; living with DF; supportive care). Diagnostic delay resulted from lack of recognition by patients and healthcare professionals. Some patients received an initial diagnosis of cancer, causing significant distress. Treatment decisions were challenging, and patients experienced uncertainty among clinicians about optimal therapies. Side-effects of treatment were severe, including fatigue, nausea, anorexia, low libido and depression. Pain was the most debilitating symptom and dependency on painkillers was a significant concern. Functional limitation and restricted mobility frequently affected daily activities. Patients experienced difficulty accomplishing their role in society; relationship problems, caring for children, employment and financial difficulties. Social isolation and lack of understanding were common. The psychological impact of this “life-changing and life-long” condition was profound. All patients requested knowledgeable healthcare professionals, more information, continuity of care and peer support. Conclusions DF patients face complex physical, psychological and practical challenges. Comprehensive care services are needed. Increasing awareness may help to improve diagnostic pathways and overall patient experience.
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10
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Patients with head and neck cancer may need more intensive pain management to maintain daily functioning: a multi-center study. Support Care Cancer 2018; 27:1663-1672. [PMID: 30112724 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4404-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of pain, pain management, and impact of recent pain on daily functioning in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) and patients with other cancers. METHODS This multi-center survey was conducted by using Brief Pain Inventory questionnaire to evaluate pain status and its impact on daily functioning. RESULTS A total of 3289 patients were analyzed including 708 HNC patients and 2581 patients with other cancers. The overall pain prevalence was 69.17%. A higher percentage of HNC patients had recent pain (60.59 vs. 44.01%, P < 0.001), required pain management (86.29 vs. 72.03%, P < 0.001), and used any analgesics (53.81 vs. 34.52%, P < 0.001). HNC patients with pain management had a higher prevalence of recent pain (85.83 vs. 81.14%, P = 0.044) and a slightly lower satisfaction rate (74.00 vs. 79.70%, P = 0.070). Regarding the impact of pain on daily functioning, HNC patients had a lower mean interference score for general activity such as walking, normal work, sleep, and life enjoyment. CONCLUSIONS The HNC patients may need more intensive pain management to achieve optimal pain control and maintain daily functioning.
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Fallon M, Walker J, Colvin L, Rodriguez A, Murray G, Sharpe M. Pain Management in Cancer Center Inpatients: A Cluster Randomized Trial to Evaluate a Systematic Integrated Approach-The Edinburgh Pain Assessment and Management Tool. J Clin Oncol 2018; 36:1284-1290. [PMID: 29543567 PMCID: PMC5929219 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2017.76.1825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Pain is suboptimally managed in patients with cancer. We aimed to compare the effect of a policy of adding a clinician-delivered bedside pain assessment and management tool (Edinburgh Pain Assessment and management Tool [EPAT]) to usual care (UC) versus UC alone on pain outcomes. Patients and Methods In a two-arm, parallel group, cluster randomized (1:1) trial, we observed pain outcomes in 19 cancer centers in the United Kingdom and then randomly assigned the centers to either implement EPAT or to continue UC. The primary outcome was change in the percentage of study participants in each center with a clinically significant (≥ 2 point) improvement in worst pain (using the Brief Pain Inventory Short Form) from admission to 3 to 5 days after admission. Secondary outcomes included quality of analgesic prescribing and opioid-related adverse effects. Results Ten centers were randomly assigned to EPAT, and nine were assigned to UC. We enrolled 1,921 patients and obtained outcome data from 93% (n = 1,795). Participants (mean age, 60 years; 49% women) had a variety of cancer types. For centers randomly assigned to EPAT, the percentage of participants with a clinically significant improvement in worst pain increased from 47.7% to 54.1%, and for those randomly assigned to continue UC, this percentage decreased from 50.6% to 46.4%. The absolute difference was 10.7% (95% CI, 0.2% to 21.1%; P = .046) and it increased to 15.4% (95% CI, 5.8% to 25.0%; P = .004) when two centers that failed to implement EPAT were excluded. EPAT centers had greater improvements in prescribing practice and in the Brief Pain Inventory Short Form pain subscale score. Other pain and distress outcomes and opioid adverse effects did not differ between EPAT and UC. Conclusion A systematic integrated approach improves pain outcomes for inpatients in cancer centers without increasing opioid adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Fallon
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Walker
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lesley Colvin
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Aryelly Rodriguez
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon Murray
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Sharpe
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - for the Edinburgh Pain Assessment and Management Tool Study Group
- Marie Fallon and Lesley Colvin, University of Edinburgh, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre; Aryelly Rodriguez and Gordon Murray, University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh; and Jane Walker and Michael Sharpe, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Eaton LH, Brant JM, McLeod K, Yeh C. Nonpharmacologic Pain Interventions: A Review of Evidence-Based Practices for Reducing Chronic Cancer Pain
. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2018; 21:54-70. [PMID: 28524909 DOI: 10.1188/17.cjon.s3.54-70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain is a common issue for patients with cancer and can be challenging to manage effectively. Healthcare professionals need to be knowledgeable about evidence-based nonpharmacologic interventions.
. OBJECTIVES This systematic review critically appraises the strength and quality of the empirical evidence for nonpharmacologic interventions in reducing chronic cancer pain.
. METHODS Intervention studies were critically appraised and summarized by an Oncology Nursing Society Putting Evidence Into Practice team of RNs, advanced practice nurses, and nurse scientists. A level of evidence and a practice recommendation was assigned to each intervention.
. FINDINGS Based on evidence, recommended interventions to reduce chronic cancer pain are celiac plexus block for pain related to pancreatic and abdominal cancers and radiation therapy for bone pain. Although psychoeducational interventions are considered likely to be effective, the effective components of these interventions and their dose and duration need to be determined through additional research.
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Oldenmenger WH, Geerling JI, Mostovaya I, Vissers KC, de Graeff A, Reyners AK, van der Linden YM. A systematic review of the effectiveness of patient-based educational interventions to improve cancer-related pain. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 63:96-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Sauzet O, Kleine M, Williams JE. Data in longitudinal randomised controlled trials in cancer pain: is there any loss of the information available in the data? Results of a systematic literature review and guideline for reporting. BMC Cancer 2016; 16:771. [PMID: 27716116 PMCID: PMC5054541 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-016-2818-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Given the prevalence of untreated pain among cancer patients, there have been calls for more and better research in the domain. Increasingly, calls for less waste and more optimal use of trial data collected are being made. Waste of data includes non-optimal statistical analysis and non-presentation of interpretable effect size as a measure of effectiveness of an intervention which also enable comparisons across studies. Methods We reviewed the recent literature on randomised trials on longitudinal cancer pain to identify sources of loss of data information by collecting material on the nature of outcomes collected, analysed, the method of analysis and what was presented as a result of the trial. Illustrated with real data, we propose some guidelines on how to adequately analyse longitudinal data and report the results using mixed models. Results We identified some major source of data information loss, one of which is the transformation of a continuous pain outcome. Not adjusting for the collected outcome baseline value is moreover a source of bias. Multiple testing by analysing the data cross-sectionnally at each time-point leads to loss of information and power. Finally, effect sizes reflecting the effectiveness of the intervention were never reported. Conclusions We identified several sources of information loss in the way longitudinal trials on pain were analysed and reported. However these problems could be easily solved by using regression methods like mixed models and presenting regression parameters to provide a concrete quantitative effect of the intervention. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12885-016-2818-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odile Sauzet
- AG3 Epidemiology and International Public Health, Bielefeld School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany.
| | - Maren Kleine
- AG3 Epidemiology and International Public Health, Bielefeld School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - John E Williams
- Department of Anaesthetics and Pain Management, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Pattison N, Brown MR, Gubbay A, Peacock J, Ross JR, Chapman S, Sauzet O, Williams J. Towards a pain free hospital: an in-depth qualitative analysis of the pain experiences of head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Br J Pain 2015; 10:29-37. [PMID: 27551409 DOI: 10.1177/2049463715599995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment for head and neck cancer can frequently be a painful experience with implications for patients in terms of quality of life, nutrition and ultimately treatment outcomes. Pain may arise for a number of reasons in this patient group including the influence of localised tissue damage from radiotherapy, the effects of chemotherapeutic agents as well as the disease process itself. Early identification of cancer pain, through screening and early analgesic and pain management are thought to be the most appropriate approaches to the problem. AIM To explore in-depth, patients' views of the experience of pain related to radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, within the context of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of pain screening and intervention. SAMPLE A purposive sample of head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy who were participating in a separate RCT of a proactive pain screening intervention. METHODS A qualitative design using one-off, face-to-face, in-depth interviews. Data were inductively analysed for themes using thematic analysis. Data were collected from September 2012 to January 2013. FINDINGS Eight participants were interviewed. Several issues around pain management arose and the influence of various factors became apparent. Four dominant themes emerged: facets of radiotherapy pain in head and neck cancer, facilitators and barriers to pain management, pain services and finally interdisciplinary working. CONCLUSION The specific issues faced by head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy highlight the need for pain relieving interventions delivered by pain specialists, in tandem with the development of robust self-management strategies. An integrated approach to care is optimal, comprising pain screening at each outpatient encounter, and review by specialists as necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew Rd Brown
- Pain Management Team, The Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK; The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | | | - Janet Peacock
- Division of Health & Social Care Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Joy R Ross
- The Royal Marsden and Royal Brompton Palliative Care Service, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Suzanne Chapman
- Pain Management Team, The Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK
| | - Odile Sauzet
- Epidemiology & International Public Health, Bielefeld School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - John Williams
- Pain Management Team, The Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK
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