Impact of cervical osteoarthritis on quality of life after free flap reconstruction in head and neck cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) often requires free flap reconstruction, which involves extensive cervical manipulation. Concurrently, cervical osteoarthritis is increasingly prevalent due to modern lifestyle factors. This study investigates the impact of cervical osteoarthritis on quality of life (QoL) in HNSCC patients undergoing free flap reconstruction.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of HNSCC patients who underwent free flap reconstruction was conducted. Patients were stratified by cervical osteoarthritis status and assessed using the Neck Disability Index (NDI), EORTC QLQ-C30, and QLQ-HN35 questionnaires at preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up intervals (3, 6, and 12 months post-adjuvant therapy). Propensity score matching (1:1) adjusted

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12457309 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature