Quality of Life and Cost of Care for Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Soft Tissue Reconstruction Using a Submental Island Flap Versus a Radial Forearm Free Flap

Abstract

Statement of the Problem: Many options exist for the reconstruction of head and neck defects. The radial forearm free flap (RFFF) and the submental island flap (SIF) have been well established as excellent options for soft tissue reconstruction in the head and neck. Quality of life (QOL) has been previously studied for RFFF reconstruction of head and neck soft tissue defects, but the QOL following SIF reconstruction has yet to be elucidated. This study sought to compare the QOL and cost of care between these reconstructive options.