OBTURATORS AND MAXILLECTOMY

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Obturators play a critical role in the rehabilitation of maxillectomy patients. A maxillectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of the maxilla, or upper jaw bone, typically due to a malignant tumor. This surgery often results in a communication between the oral and nasal cavities, causing functional issues such as difficulty speaking, eating, and swallowing, as well as esthetic concerns.

An obturator is a maxillofacial prosthetic device that closes this communication, restoring function and appearance. Here's how obturators can help maxillectomy patients:

1. Improving Speech: By separating the oral and nasal cavities, an obturator can significantly enhance speech intelligibility. Without it, the patient's voice may sound hypernasal, making it hard for others to understand them.
2. Facilitating Eating and Swallowing: By closing off the connection to the nasal cavity, the obturator enables the patient to eat and drink without food or liquid coming out of the nose.
3. Restoring Appearance: Depending on the extent of the maxillectomy, the face may appear sunken on one side. An obturator can be designed to fill this space, improving facial symmetry and appearance.
4. Enhancing Quality of Life: By improving speech, eating, and appearance, obturators can significantly enhance a maxillectomy patient's overall quality of life. They can help restore the patient's confidence and facilitate social interactions.
5. Promoting Healing: In the immediate postoperative period, a surgical obturator helps protect the surgical site, maintain the shape of the oral cavity, and support healing.

Obturators can be temporary or definitive. Temporary obturators are often used immediately after surgery to aid in healing, while definitive obturators are custom-made to provide the best fit, function, and esthetics for the long term. Despite their benefits, it's worth noting that obturators are a prosthetic solution and will require ongoing care and regular adjustments over time. Consult with your Maxillofacial Rehab Specialist today!!