Psychiatric aspects of head and neck cancer surgery.

Psychiatric problems of patients with head and neck cancer include reactions to disfiguring illness and treatment; adjustment to alterations of speech, eating, and other functions, including sex; changes in body image; alcohol and tobacco addiction; pain; organic brain syndromes; and dealing with terminal illness. Although speech is often compromised, head and neck patients can communicate and psychiatric work is possible. The consultation-liaison psychiatrist can provide considerable assistance by utilizing psychodynamic, behavioral, and pharmacologic modes of treatment and by working with family members and staff.