Chronic Pain Management in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

<b>Intruduction:</b> Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a heterogeneous group of tumors occurring worldwide with a frequency of over 660,000. new cases per year. They are responsible for approximately 325,000 deaths during the year. Pain related to head and neck cancer occurs in approximately 70% of patients. It is estimated that approximately 40-50% of HNC survivors suffer from chronic pain syndromes, which significantly lowers the quality of their lives. Due to relatively good prognosis, this particular group of patients requires special approach in pain management and further observational studies. The complexity of the mechanisms contributing to the occurrence of chronic pain requires comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach provided by a pain management team.<b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to summarize and review the lates research and potential treatment interventions for head and neck cancer survivors, emphasizing multidisciplinary approach.<b>Materials and methods:</b> Included in this literature review are peer-reviewed papers authored by various research teams as available in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases.<b>Results:</b> Apart from pharmacological interventions, great role in pain management play rehabilitation, psychological and speech and swallowing therapy support. The data on head and neck cancer survivors pain remains insufficient. The topic of the pain management in such a specific group requires further investigation.<b>Conclusions:</b> The pain management remains a challenge for clinical practice and the current health care system. The individual approach and knowledge about specificity of possible complications following head and neck cancer treatment are the key to effective pain management plan. The multidisciplinary approach requires using beside guideline- recommended medicine, other non-pharmacological interventions provided by other members of pain management team such as psychologists or physiotherapist.