ART: A Communication Tool for Patients with Laryngeal Cancer

Laryngeal cancer affects patients psychologically as well as physically. Vocal cords may become unusable, especially after surgery, or may even be lost. Unable to speak, express themselves aloud or converse, patients face greater difficulties. Art therapy is particularly useful when voice and speech weaken or disappear.

The human larynx has complex connections with the brain’s speech region (Broca’s area). Vocal cords produce sound and protect the lungs. When affected, as in laryngeal cancer, the close proximity of esophagus and larynx may also lead to eating difficulties, undernutrition, weight loss and reduced physical energy. Inability to express oneself verbally often causes anger and challenges relatives too. During prolonged treatment, difficulty communicating increases anxiety and stress.

Emotions Occupy a Major Place in Body and Mind During Cancer

Art therapy makes it possible to understand complaints, enable expression and provide relief. Therapists generally hold the first session the day before surgery, designing it around individual needs and circumstances, with family involvement if necessary. Sessions must be personalized, just as treatments and diets differ. Patients may be asked to paint themselves or their families, visualize their illness or depict expectations of surgery.

Below, for example, are paintings made by an American patient with laryngeal cancer during art therapy.

Materials and techniques are simple and accessible; minimizing intimidating conditions matters. Only in a comfortable setting can patients express unspoken emotions, pain and anger fully. Materials may include colored pencils, simple water-based paints, pastels, assorted paper and brushes.

Goals of Preoperative Art Therapy:

• Establishing the session framework,
• Building trust with the patient and family,
• Learning about the patient’s character and technical familiarity with art materials,
• Exploring attitudes toward illness and medical treatment through art and conversation,
• Reducing anxiety and fear,
• Contributing positively to adaptation and rehabilitation.

Cancer-related emotions often involve fear, helplessness, hopelessness, unhappiness and stress, potentially leaving lasting marks on patients and those around them. Art-based therapies address this by sharing emotions, reducing unhappy feelings and increasing positive ones, helping patients and families experience treatment more comfortably.

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