Comparison between the radial forearm and groin soft tissue free flaps for reconstruction in patients with oral cavity cancer: a quality of life analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of the radial forearm free flap (RFFF) and groin soft tissue free flap (GSFF) on the quality of life (QoL) of patients undergoing reconstructive surgery after resection for oral cancer. A retrospective analysis of 48 patients was performed. The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QOL) questionnaire, and 14-item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire were used to evaluate the donor site scars and QoL of the patients. The postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in the RFFF group than in the GSFF group (P = 0.001). Furthermore, the total VSS score (P = 0.011), VSS score for pigmentation (P < 0.001), and OHIP-14 scores for psychological discomfort (P = 0.026) and social disability (P = 0.044) were all significantly higher in the RFFF group than in the GSFF group, while the UW-QOL scores for appearance (P = 0.037) and mood (P = 0.036) were significantly lower in the RFFF group than in the GSFF group. Compared with the RFFF, the GSFF scar is more concealed, with better aesthetics at the donor site, and this flap can result in improved postoperative QoL for patients with oral cancer.