Maxillary obturator prosthesis rehabilitation following maxillectomy for ameloblastoma: case series of five patients.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this case report is to demonstrate the benefits and applicability of appropriate maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation following surgical resection of ameloblastoma of the maxilla in Kenya.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five patients presenting with ameloblastoma of the maxilla over 3 years were studied with respect to histologic type, site of tumor, resultant surgical defect, and form of definitive obturator prosthesis. Impressions were taken using irreversible hydrocolloid and poured with dental stone. Immediate surgical obturators were fabricated from casts using clear autopolymerizing acrylic resin. One patient had bilateral partial maxillectomy, whereas the rest had unilateral partial maxillectomy. Immediate surgical obturators were fitted intraoperatively and held in place using Adams clasps on the remaining natural dentition for all patients, except the one who had undergone bilateral partial maxillectomy, whose surgical obturator was held loosely using circumzygomatic wires. After 6 to 8 weeks, surgical obturators and packing were withdrawn, and new impressions were taken to fabricate definitive obturators. Patients were reviewed every 2 weeks for 3 months, then once every 3 months per year for 3 years, and thereafter once per year.

RESULTS: The immediate surgical obturators facilitated retention of the surgical packing, promoting healing with minimal postsurgical infection and scar contracture formation. This ensured the restoration of acceptable esthetics and maintenance of oral function at a reasonable level during the initial postoperative period. Definitive obturators restored esthetics, oral function, and ability to handle secretions to a satisfactory level.

CONCLUSION: Satisfactory functional and esthetic results are achievable in patients with extensive acquired maxillary defects by means of obturator prostheses fabricated using readily available materials.