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Prosthetic rehabilitation after hemimaxillectomy: a case report
General Dentistry
|February 24, 2023
Summary
This case report details the successful rehabilitation of a patient with a hard palate defect following oral cancer surgery. A conventional obturator restored function and aesthetics, significantly improving the patient's quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Reconstructive Dentistry
Background:
- Maxillofacial defects from tumor resection impair vital functions like mastication and speech.
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma of the hard palate necessitates surgical intervention, often resulting in significant defects.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old female patient diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma involving the hard palate.
Findings:
- Hemimaxillectomy for tumor removal created a left-sided palatal defect.
- Rehabilitation with a conventional obturator successfully restored mastication, phonation, swallowing, and aesthetics.
- The patient reported satisfaction with the functional and esthetic outcomes after 1 year of follow-up.
Implications:
- Conventional obturators offer a viable and effective solution for restoring function and esthetics in patients with palatal defects.
- This case highlights the importance of a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy in managing the sequelae of oral cancer treatment.
- Successful obturator rehabilitation can significantly enhance the psychological well-being and quality of life for patients with maxillofacial defects.
