19602 Background: More than half of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer will develop hepatic metastases. Most patients with hepatic metastases will recur within two years after resection. Hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) pumps deliver regional treatment. However, very few studies quantitatively explore the patient's experience of living with an HAI pump and how this experience impacts HAI-related quality of life (QOL). This study explored the impact of HAI pump treatment on patient's overall QOL within the specific domains of physical, psychological, social, and functional well-being. Methods: Twenty-five colorectal cancer patients treated with HAI pumps completed an HAI pump- specific QOL assessment tool at one data collection time point. The QOL assessment tool items were derived from the investigator's previous QOL research with this patient population [Blair et al., 2002, Annals of Surgical Oncology]. Demographic, disease and QOL data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: Of the 25 patients accrued, 32% were receiving treatments through their HAI pump and 68% were not. There were no significant difference in QOL between treatment status, gender, and age (<65 or = 65). Currently treated pump patients experienced more appetite changes (p=0.03), sleep changes (p=0.08), and more restrictions in traveling (p=0.08). Male patients had more concerns with lifting heavy items (p=0.05), while female patients had more concerns with isolation (p=0.17) and changes in the type of clothing worn (p=0.16). Younger patients had more concerns with vigorous activity (p=0.01), bending (p=0.08), and were more self-conscious of their appearance with the pump (p=0.01). Conclusions: Overall, in this study, colorectal cancer patients with HAI pumps reported good QOL and were satisfied with their overall treatment experience. Although there was no comparative statistical analysis performed in this study, several QOL concerns remain worrisome for patients. Defining these specific QOL concerns in HAI patients will enhance clinical understanding of their unique experience with this treatment modality and impact patient management. This will enable further development of educational tools and research to test interventions to support HAI patients and sustain their QOL. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
Examining the effects of adjuvant chemotherapy on cognition and the impact of any cognitive impairment on quality of life in colorectal cancer patients: study protocol
