QoL and Functional Outcomes after Mandibular Reconstruction
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Quality of life (QoL) and Functional Outcomes after Mandibular Reconstruction following segmental resection: A retrospective cohort study
IRAS ID
295035
Contact name
Jagtar Dhanda
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen Victoria NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 31 days
Research summary
Traditionally, fibula free flap is used for reconstruction of segmental mandibulectomy defects. However, donor site morbidity is a recognized problem with Momoh et al., (2011) reporting donor site complications as high as 30%. This has significant implications on patients (pain and mobility) and the NHS due to increased hospital visits and costs associated with treating these complications.
Bowe et al. (2020) published a cohort of 30 patients who have undergone reconstruction of posterolateral segmental mandibulectomy defects (Brown Class I Defects) with a mandibular reconstruction plate (MRP) and anterolateral thigh (ALT) axis free flap with a low incidence of complications, demonstrating its feasibility of use as an appropriate reconstructive option in this specific cohort of patients.
This retrospective questionnaire-based study aims to compare donor site morbidity and patient experience in terms of functional outcomes and quality of life for those patients who underwent ALT or FFF for the reconstruction of segmental mandibulectomy defects. We will be using three standardized questionnaires that have been validated for use in head and neck cancer patients.
In a separate arm of the study, we will also be looking at the role of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) compared to simple pressure dressings + split-thickness skin grafts (STSG) in influencing these outcome measures. We recently presented a retrospective audit investigating the role of VAC dressings which demonstrated a reduction in healing time and re-admission rates to hospital in relation to the donor site. We are keen to build upon this preliminary work in this study.The eventual aim of this project would be a work-up to a prospective randomized controlled trial to investigate donor site morbidity and functional outcomes of ALT versus FFF in reconstruction of segmental mandibulectomy defects.
REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/SW/0048
Date of REC Opinion
11 May 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion