Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
05:54
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
Surgical and prosthetic reconsiderations in patients with maxillectomy
1Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands. bernd.lethaus@mumc.nl
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|December 17, 2009
Summary
This study presents a new method for rehabilitating patients after maxillectomy using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing obturator prostheses. The implants provided excellent retention, leading to successful functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Reconstructive Dentistry
Background:
- Maxillectomy for tumor ablation often results in significant maxillary defects.
- Rehabilitation with obturator prostheses is crucial for restoring function and quality of life.
- Traditional obturator retention methods can be challenging and may require further surgical intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish and evaluate novel rehabilitation strategies for patients with obturator prostheses post-maxillectomy.
- To assess the efficacy of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) designed prostheses in managing maxillary defects.
- To investigate the use of implants for improved prosthesis retention, avoiding surgical defect expansion.
Main Methods:
- Eleven patients with maxillary defects underwent reconstruction using CAD/CAM designed obturator prostheses.
- Dental implants were strategically placed in the remaining bone to enhance prosthesis retention.
- The Obturator Functioning Scale (OFS) was utilized for functional and satisfaction assessments.
Main Results:
- All eleven patients achieved successful treatment outcomes as per the established plan.
- CAD/CAM designed obturator prostheses demonstrated good functional results across all assessed domains.
- High levels of patient satisfaction were reported regarding functional outcomes and social acceptance.
Conclusions:
- CAD/CAM technology offers a viable and effective solution for fabricating patient-specific obturator prostheses.
- Implant-supported retention in CAD/CAM obturators successfully addresses retention challenges in maxillectomy patients.
- This approach significantly improves functional rehabilitation and social integration for patients with maxillary defects.
