Objective: To assess the quality of life and functional status of patients who have undergone hemimandibulectomy based on the type of reconstructive procedure performed.
Study design: Survey, retrospective.
Methods: Twenty-one patients who had undergone hemimandibulectomy and had similar defects were divided into two groups based on the reconstructive technique utilized. Eleven patients were placed in the soft tissue reconstruction group. Ten patients were placed in the mandible reconstruction group. All patients were assessed for: function, utilizing the Performance Status Scale, and quality of life, using a general cancer questionnaire (FACT-G) and a series of questions specific for head and neck cancer patients.
Results: Mandible reconstruction produced a perceived better physical appearance (P = .02), better eating ability (P = .04), and a better overall quality of life (P = .002). The mandible reconstruction cohort consistently outscored the soft tissue cohort on all questionnaires.
Conclusion: Restoration of mandibular continuity after hemimandibulectomy leads to improved function and a superior quality of life in appropriately selected patients.