Self-care advice for patients after surgery for oesophageal cancer - a mixed-methods systematic review

Purpose: The aim of the literature review was to identify and synthesise research on self-care advice for oesophageal cancer survivors.

Methods: A mixed-methods systematic review and synthesis of existing literature on the topic. Five databases were searched for studies providing information on self-care advice for survivorship after oesophageal cancer surgery, in English, with no time filter. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program was used to assess the risk of bias. Data were presented by textual descriptions and grouping of data.

Results: Among the 13 studies included in the review, five pieces of self-care advice were identified; reconstructing eating habits, bed-head elevation, health-promoting advice, monitoring symptoms and body functions, and involving family and friends. The self-care advice was experienced to be hard work, but worth the effort. They also provided reassurance and an increased understanding of bodily changes and social consequences of the disease and treatment.

Conclusions: There are is little evidence-based self-care advice for oesophageal cancer survivors. However, the existing self-care advice was appreciated and contributed to an increased understanding of the situation. Comprehensible and easy-to-follow recommendations should be provided to all oesophageal cancer survivors.

Implications for cancer survivors: Evidence-based self-care advice helpful for the individual oesophageal cancer survivor may be imperative to cope with the consequences of oesophagectomy after hospital discharge.