ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: This report describes a simplified method for construction of an interim obturator for a huge maxillary defect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A medical grade-silicone obturator was fabricated indirectly on a duplicate cast of the surgical defect for a patient with a bilateral total maxillectomy. This silicone obturator was attached to an acrylic plate by means of mushroom-like extension tags projecting from the fitting surface of the acrylic palatal plate. RESULTS: The obturator was well retained in the patient's mouth and markedly improved his ability to speak and swallow. CONCLUSION: This technique proved to be a simple, quick, and cost-effective method for construction of obturators for huge maxillary defects.
Subject(s)
Maxilla/surgery , Palatal Obturators , Prosthesis Design , Acrylic Resins , Alginates , Deglutition/physiology , Humans , Male , Melanoma/rehabilitation , Melanoma/surgery , Middle Aged , Palatal Neoplasms/rehabilitation , Palatal Neoplasms/surgery , Prosthesis Fitting , Silicone Elastomers , Speech/physiologyABSTRACT
Stereotactic radiotherapy provides the most accurate and effective therapy and protects the adjacent, normal tissues. The head must be positioned the same for all treatments. This article describes the fabrication and application of a noninvasive intraoral appliance that verifies the position of the head to deliver more accurate radiotherapy and protect the adjacent, normal tissues.
