Evaluating the quality of life among patients undergoing orthognathic surgery using a customized questionnaire: A prospective study

Abstract

A questionnaire, specific to the clinical condition treated is important. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Quality of life (QOL) amongst patients undergoing orthognathic surgery using a customized questionnaire encompassing, patients’ perception of facial form and also patient perception of overall quality of care provided during the entire treatment. This prospective, qualitative, observational study was carried out on 21 patients, who underwent Ortho-surgical management between Jan 2019 and Mar 2020. The Orthognathic QOL questionnaire was customized, Phase I, immediately prior; and Phase II, 6 months after surgery. Appropriate analysis was done to compare Phase I and Phase II, with the level of significance set to P < 0.05. “Aesthetics” was the most frequent reported reason for seeking treatment. The mean pre-/post-treatment difference for oral function was statistically significant. Majority (87%) of patients reported surgical outcomes met their expectations. Results, post-surgery; good hospital care (33.3%), supportive doctors (28.57%) and regular follow up (9.52%). “Patients’ perspective” of treatment, is often neglected, the immense importance of which has been duly reflected in our study. We recommend the use of our questionnaire in a similar, broad based multicentric study with a larger patient base, will aid in improving overall outcome of ortho-surgical interventions.