Two-piece obturator using "lock-and-key" mechanism

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Prosthodontics
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Premaxillary resection due to squamous cell carcinoma necessitates obturator prostheses.
• Existing two-piece obturators can present insertion and retention challenges for patients.
• The need for improved patient-friendly prosthetic solutions is evident.

Observation:

• A patient experienced difficulties with a conventional two-piece obturator prosthesis.
• A lock-and-key mechanism was designed for intraoral assembly of a new obturator.
• The obturator was fabricated using Molloplast B®, a heat-cured resilient, non-irritant acrylic material.

Findings:

• The lock-and-key mechanism significantly facilitated intraoral insertion and improved prosthesis retention.
• The resilient acrylic material adapted to undercuts without causing soft tissue trauma or irritation.
• The resulting obturator was lightweight, comfortable, and user-friendly.

Implications:

• This fabrication method offers a practical solution for patients requiring premaxillary obturators.
• The lock-and-key design enhances patient compliance and prosthetic function.
• The use of tissue-compatible, resilient materials is crucial for successful obturator fabrication.