Predictors of obturator functioning and satisfaction in Turkish patients using an obturator prosthesis after maxillectomy

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine the sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors affecting obturator function and satisfaction using the obturator functioning scale (OFS) in maxillectomy patients rehabilitated with obturator prostheses. Study Design. The study sample consisted of 41 maxillectomy patients. The OFS was translated into Turkish and adapted for assessing obturator functioning and patient satisfaction among Turkish patients. Data were collected from patients' medical records and self-completed questionnaires, including the Turkish version of the OFS, sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics. Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and backward stepwise multiple linear regression were used for data analysis. Results. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.85) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.86) were acceptable for the OFS. The most frequently reported problem was "difficulty chewing." Bivariate analysis revealed significant differences in total OFS scores in terms of surgery type, defect size, and education level, except for the other clinical and sociodemographic characteristics and behavioral factors. Education level and surgery type were found to be the most important predictors of patient satisfaction and functioning of the obturator. Conclusions. The Turkish version of the OFS might be a useful tool for clinicians to identify patients who are at risk for poor functioning of the obturator, lack of satisfaction, and unmet needs.