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Comprehensive approach to functional palatomaxillary reconstruction using regional and free tissue transfer: Report of reconstructive and prosthodontic outcomes of 140 patients
Author(s) -
Urken Mark L.,
Roche Ansley M.,
Kiplagat Kimberly J.,
Dewey Eliza H.,
Lazarus Cathy,
Likhterov Ilya,
Buchbinder Daniel,
Okay Devin J.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.25134
Subject(s) - medicine , rehabilitation , palatal obturator , dentistry , surgery , physical therapy , prosthesis
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.