Elucidating the masticatory function and oral quality of life according to the range of mandibulectomy

The aim of this study was to clarify the masticatory function and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) for different ranges of mandibulectomy and also continuity resection of the mandible. A total of thirty one patients who underwent mandibulectomy and were classified into AT, body, and marginal resection (MR) groups according to the CAT classification were investigated. The masticatory function was evaluated using a color-changing gum, a gummy jelly, and a modified Sato's questionnaire. The OHRQoL was evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP), which included seven subscales. There were significant differences between the AT group and body group in the findings from the color-changing gum and the OHIP (P < 0.05). There was also a significant difference between the AT group and body group regarding the degree of physical disability and psychological disability (subscales of the OHIP) (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the body and MR group in any of the tests. Consequently, the body group showed a higher masticatory function and OHRQoL than the AT group despite having the same category of mandibulectomy defect; however, the masticatory function and OHRQoL in the body and MR groups were found to be closely similar, at least, regarding the chewing performance.