[Retention of shape and function after jaw bone resection for tumor surgery]

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Resection of facial bones significantly impacts patient's psychological state due to altered form and function.
• Immediate rehabilitation is crucial for maintaining quality of life after facial bone surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the potential for immediate rehabilitation following facial bone resection.
• To outline effective reconstructive strategies for maxillary and mandibular defects.

Main Methods:

• Maxillary defects primarily managed with obturators to support soft tissues and restore function.
• Secondary reconstruction of maxilla utilized split rib grafts after hemimaxillectomy.
• Mandibular defects underwent primary reconstruction with bone grafts concurrently with resection.
• Temporary bridging of mandibular defects with implants when soft tissue quality/quantity was insufficient.

Main Results:

• Obturators successfully supported facial soft tissues, closed defects, and restored masticatory function in maxilla.
• Split rib grafts provided viable secondary reconstruction options for hemimaxillectomy defects.
• Primary bone grafting achieved favorable outcomes for mandibular resections.
• Implants served as effective temporary solutions for mandibular defects, facilitating later bone transplantation.
• Ensured adequate mouth opening and prevented mandibular stump deviation in all cases.

Conclusions:

• Immediate rehabilitation and reconstruction are vital for maintaining form and function after facial bone resection.
• Diverse surgical techniques, including obturators, bone grafts, and implants, enable successful restoration of facial structures.
• Careful surgical planning is essential to secure adequate mouth opening and prevent mandibular deviation.