Occupational therapy in oncogynecology – a pilot study

Abstract

Objective: Overview of the possibilities of using non-medical occupational therapy in oncogynecology, description of the role of an occupational therapist in prehabilitation, and evaluation of data from a pilot study. Methods: The study cohort consisted of 18 patients enrolled between November 2023 and October 2024. The prospective study was conducted over a period of nine months. Patients were admitted for a 3-week intensive multimodal prehabilitation program scheduled on a 4/7 basis prior to elective surgery for primary or recurrent malignant ovarian, endometrial, or cervical cancer. In addition to the physicians, patients received prehabilitation by a physiotherapist, psychologist, nutritionist, and occupational therapist. Clinical work of the occupational therapist was measured upon examination and subsequent therapy in the areas of cognitive function, fine motor skills of the upper limbs, self-sufficiency, and quality of life. The occupational therapist applied selected functional tests and questionnaires (MKF classification, Hand grip test, MoCA test, 5× Sit-to-Stand test, WHODAS 2.0) to determine the effect of the rehabilitation intervention. Results and conclusions: Important indicators were selected functional abilities that have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. The results of functional tests showed a significant improvement of key parameters due to intensive prehabilitation, confirming the essential role of occupational therapist intervention in oncogynecological prehabilitation.