Qlif-15. first swiss integrated multidisciplinary neurorehabilitation program for neuro-oncologic in-patients

Patients diagnosed with brain tumors are wrongly considered poor candidates for neuro-rehabilitation (NR), due to the perception of poor prognosis and the need of oncologic care following surgery. However, intensive rehabilitation often allows to improve functional independence. In this context, we have identified a need for an integrated management of neuro-oncologic patients who are not sufficiently independent to return home after neurosurgery and we set up the first Swiss neuro-rehabilitation program for neuro-oncologic patients. It is based on an innovative public-private partnership between the CHUV University Hospital and the Clinic La Lignière (LL). The later reserves beds exclusively for neuro-oncologic patients to allow the fastest transfer possible after surgical intervention. These patients benefit from acute neuro-rehabilitation in the period between intervention and early cancer adjuvant treatments (starting typically 3-5 weeks after surgery). Potential candidates are identified during their stay in neurosurgery, based on their NR potential (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, neuropsychology), prognosis and further treatment plan of their cancer. NR support starts early at the CHUV. Once stable, patients are transferred to LL. A referent nurse coordinates the program and ensures its flow. The first 12 months of implementation show an improvement in the management of patients on several points: 1) Improved integrated rehabi...
Source: Neuro-Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: QUALITY OF LIFE Source Type: research