An Assessment of Quality-of-Life Following Tissue Expansion in Pediatric Patients

Introduction: There is limited data on the effects of tissue expansion (TE) surgery on quality-of-life (QOL) in pediatric patients. Evidence-based information may help clinicians, patients, and their families with treatment decision-making and post-operative expectations. This study explores QOL following TE in pediatric patients. Methods: A post-intervention QOL survey and retrospective chart review was performed. Patients who underwent TE at a pediatric tertiary hospital between October 2004 and March 2020 completed the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory or the Glasgow Benefit Inventory. Total scores range from −100(worsened QOL) to +100(improved QOL). Participants were also asked if they would recommend TE to other patients with the same indication. Results: The response rate was 38% (n = 20; 14 females, 6 males). The median QOL score was +17[−2,+49]. Higher QOL scores were found for TE indications of scar (+49) and alopecia (+40), compared to giant congenital melanocytic nevus (−2). Higher scores were also associated with shorter time in active treatment ( r = −0.65) and fewer complications ( r = −0.56). 18/20 participants would recommend TE. Participants whose QOL improved (n = 11, 55%) reported increased self-confidence, fitting in with peers, and improved function. Participants with unchanged or decreased QOL (n = 9, 45%) described a negative experience with residual scarring. However, 7/9 with unchanged or decreased QOL would still recommend TE. Conclusions: This preliminary descriptive study demonstrated variable QOL following TE. Patient and treatment-related factors impact QOL outcomes. Despite the range in QOL outcomes, the majority of participants would recommend TE. Further research evaluating QOL following TE is necessary to better understand this relationship.