The Role of Chest Physiotherapy in Enhancing Quality of Life in a Postoperative Patient With Gingivobuccal Sulcus Carcinoma and Empyema: A Case Report

Gingivobuccal cancer encompasses a group of malignancies that affect the alveolus, retromolar trigone, buccal mucosa, and gingivobuccal sulcus (GBS). Among these, GBS carcinoma is the most prevalent malignant tumor found in the oral cavity. We present the case of a 56-year-old male who experienced pain in his right cheek for two months and was subsequently diagnosed with GBS cancer in the right buccal region, leading to surgical intervention. After one month, the patient was referred to chest physiotherapy due to complaints of cough with secretion and breathlessness. The chest physiotherapy protocol included deep breathing exercises, segmental breathing, and the Active Cycle of Breathing Technique, among others. Outcome measures used to assess progress included the Modified Medical Research Council Scale, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, 6-Minute Walk Test, and Short Form 36. The accompanying physiotherapy protocol demonstrated a positive effect on improving the patient's quality of life, functional capacity, and exercise performance.