Use of obturators in rehabilitation of maxillectomy defects

Several methods are available to reconstruct the maxilla after trauma, surgical resection of a tumour or as the result of congenital malformations. For a successful restoration the patient must feel that they can socialize without impediment, they must have acceptable speech, dental appearance and satisfactory oral function. Techniques include placement of an obturator and/or surgical reconstruction with local or free flaps followed by an implant-supported restoration. This presentation aims to demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of various techniques in providing patients with a functional and aesthetic restoration of the maxillary arch, after surgical resection, for removal of tumours. Surgical techniques for improving the placement and outcome of obturators are discussed. Results from a patient assessment of obturator function is presented, demonstrating the successful use of obturators in patients treated at the Combined Head and Neck Clinic, ORL Department, Greenlane Hospital.