Objective To systematically evaluate and integrate qualitative research on the experiences and needs of patients with head and neck cancer, and to provide reference for targeted intervention.Methods We searched electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, WanFang, VIP, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database to retrieve qualitative studies on the experiences and needs of patients with head and neck cancer from the establishment of the database to February 2023.The quality of included studies was evaluated by Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool for qualitative studies.The meta-aggressive approach was used to integrate the results.Results Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria.We extracted 55 themes from the included qualitative studies, categorized these themes into 10 categories on the basis of similarity in meaning, and produced three synthesized findings:symptom distress influences patients′ mental health and social adjustment; patients experience post-traumatic growth and adopt a range of coping strategies; and diversified and unmet needs.Conclusion Patients with head and neck cancer experience severe physical and psychological trauma. To promote post-traumatic growth in patients, healthcare professionals should focus on patients′ illness experiences and develop personalized, needs-based continuing care plans.