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Patient satisfaction in 1,827 patients following various methods of facial reconstruction based on age, defect size and site
Author(s) -
Schnabl Saskia Maria,
Breuninger Helmut,
Iordanou Eleni,
Scheu Alexander,
Kofler Lukas,
Häfner HansMartin,
Eberle Franziska Carola
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
jddg: journal der deutschen dermatologischen gesellschaft
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.463
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1610-0387
pISSN - 1610-0379
DOI - 10.1111/ddg.13476
Subject(s) - medicine , scars , surgery , medical record , patient satisfaction
Summary Background Defect coverage following tumor excision requires a case‐by‐case decision as regards the optimal reconstruction technique. In the head and neck region in particular, the cosmetic outcome is of major importance. The objective of the present study was to compare various reconstruction methods in terms of their functional and aesthetic outcome based on patient age, defect size and site. Patients and methods Overall, 1,827 patients (age: 18–92 years, median age: 56 years) were contacted. Using a standardized questionnaire, they were asked to assess postoperative complications, cosmetic and functional outcome, and the overall result of the surgical procedure. In addition, patient records were used to collect data on defect size and site as well as the type of surgical procedure employed. Results Rated as very good or good (86 %), defect closure by advancement flaps received the highest scores in terms of overall result. Other flaps and skin grafts were rated less favorably. Postoperative complications were significantly more common after local flaps. Irrespective of defect size (< 150 mm 2 , 150–300 mm 2 , > 300 mm 2 ), older patients considered the visibility of the scar to be less prominent than younger individuals. Scars in the central facial region were perceived to be more visible. Gender and smoking habits had no impact on the results of the survey. Conclusions Scars in the central facial region were perceived to be more prominent. Overall, older individuals considered their scars to be less conspicuous. Even though they are initially associated with greater tension, advancement flaps resulted in very good aesthetic and functional results and a high level of patient satisfaction.