Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
Real-Time Dynamic Navigation System for the Precise Quad-Zygomatic Implant Placement in a Patient with a Severely Atrophic Maxilla
Published on: October 18, 2021
Quality of life in patients with maxillectomy prostheses
Jonathan Irish1, Nimani Sandhu, Colleen Simpson
1Department of Otolaryngology-Surgical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. jonathan.irish@uhn.on.ca
Background:
This cross-sectional study sought to determine patient quality of life and function after prosthetic rehabilitation for maxillary and palate defects following cancer resection.
Methods:
Sixty-nine patients were identified, 42 participated in the study (61%). The Obturator Functioning Scale (OFS) and 4 general quality of life measures (Mental Health Inventory [MHI], Impact of Events Scale [IES], Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale [IIRS], and Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale [CES-D]) were correlated with clinical parameters.
Results:
Leakage when swallowing foods was the most frequently reported problem with the obturator (29%). Positive correlation was noted between the OFS and both the IES subscales (p < .01) and CES-D (p < .001). Difficulty with speech and eating was associated with increased avoidance of social situations. The surgical approach had a significant effect on the OFS, IES, and MHI subscales (p < .01).
Conclusion:
These results support the findings that good obturator function is associated with a better quality of life.
