Translation, Transcultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Hebrew Language Version of the Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire for the Assessment of Quality of Life in Orthognathic Patients.

INTRODUCTION

Dentofacial deformities impose a negative impact on quality of life (QOL). Orthognathic surgery is the main pillar of treatment for these conditions and has proven its impact on the improvement of the functional and psychosocial aspects of QOL. The Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ), developed by Cunningham and colleagues, is a well-established instrument for assessing QOL in patients with dentofacial deformities.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to perform a translation, transcultural adaptation, and validation of a Hebrew version of the OQLQ.

METHODS

Transcultural adaptation was done following guidelines proposed by Beaton and colleagues resulting in a pilot study conducted on 20 patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Internal consistency, reliability, and sensitivity were evaluated by means of Cronbach alpha, intraclass correlation coefficient (test-retest), and Wilcoxon test, respectively. Validity was assessed by comparing the OQLQ with the Hebrew version of the Oral Health Impact Scale-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile Scale-14) using the Spearman correlation test.

RESULTS

Internal consistency showed a good correlation between domains and excellent test-retest reliability. Sensitivity to change was statistically significant in all but 3 questions. The Hebrew version of the OQLQ exhibited a strong correlation with Oral Health Impact Profile Scale-14 in total score and moderate to high correlations among domains.

CONCLUSION

The Hebrew version of the OQLQ is a valid and reliable and specific instrument to measure QOL for Hebrew-speaking patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.