Comprehensive approach to functional palatomaxillary reconstruction using regional and free tissue transfer: Report of reconstructive and prosthodontic outcomes of 140 patients. Issue 8 (14th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Urken, Mark L.; Roche, Ansley M.; Kiplagat, Kimberly J.; Dewey, Eliza H.; Lazarus, Cathy; Likhterov, Ilya; Buchbinder, Daniel; Okay, Devin J.
• Is Part Of: Head & neck. Volume 40:Issue 8(2018)
• Page Start: 1639
• Page End: 1666
• Publication Date: 2018-03-14
• Subjects: classification -- defect -- palatomaxillary -- prosthodontic -- reconstruction; Head -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Neck -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Head -- Periodicals; Neck -- Periodicals; Face -- Periodicals; 617.51059
• DOI: 10.1002/hed.25134
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1043-3074

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Palatomaxillary defects were historically restored with a prosthetic obturator; however, advances in local and free tissue transfer has provided a viable alternative for appropriately selected patients with palatomaxillary defects. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent palatomaxillary reconstruction by the lead author between 1998 and 2016 was conducted. Patients who were restored with a palatal obturator were excluded. Results: One hundred forty patients were reconstructed with a total of 159 local, regional, and free flaps with a 96.7% success rate. Seventy‐four patients (52.8%) underwent prosthodontic rehabilitation, with 183 implants placed and an 86% success rate. Conclusion: Palatomaxillary reconstruction applying a systematic approach, using a multitude of techniques, is a safe and effective way to restore patients without compromising the ability to maintain surveillance. Prosthodontic rehabilitation can be achieved in a high percentage of patients using dental implants, leading to optimal aesthetic and functional results.