ArticleDiseases (Basel, Switzerland)2026
Recovery Phenotypes After Head-and-Neck Reconstructive Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Comparing Free-Flap and Pedicled-Flap Pathways.
Article in Diseases (Basel, Switzerland), 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundRecovery after major head-and-neck reconstruction extends beyond flap survival and wound closure, involving swallowing, psychological adaptation, body image, and overall quality of life. Integrated multidimensional assessments remain limited in routine reconstructive outcomes research.
aimThe aim of this study was to characterize and compare six-month multidimensional recovery-clinical, functional, nutritional, psychological, and body-image outcomes-between microvascular free-flap and regional pedicled-flap reconstruction and to identify factors that stratify risk for persistent functional and psychosocial impairment.
methodsWe conducted a single-center prospective cohort study at the "Victor Babeș" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania, enrolling 87 adults undergoing major reconstructive surgery after ablative treatment of head-and-neck defects (52 microvascular free flaps; 35 regional pedicled flaps). Patients were assessed at baseline and 6 months using the SF-36, WHOQOL-BREF, Body Image Scale (BIS), HADS, PHQ-9, GAD-7, Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), speech intelligibility, and PEG/tracheostomy dependence.
resultsAt 6 months, most SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF domains improved with moderate effect sizes (d = 0.3-0.7; all
conclusionsRecovery after major head-and-neck reconstruction is multidimensional and heterogeneous. Baseline swallowing function, reconstruction technique, radiotherapy, and major complications jointly stratify risk for persistent functional and psychosocial impairment, supporting risk-adapted multidisciplinary rehabilitation and early psycho-oncologic screening.
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