H J Lapointe1, H B Lampe, S M Taylor. 1. Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Faculty of Medicine, London.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To compare maxillectomy patients with immediate versus delayed placement of an obturator prosthesis in terms of patient outcomes. DESIGN: Retrospective review. OUTCOME MEASURES: The outcomes of 23 maxillectomy patients seen between 1975 and 1993 at St. Joseph's Health Centre in London, Ontario, were analyzed. METHODS: For 17 patients, a prosthesis was placed immediately as part of the operative procedure, and for 6 patients, an occlusive dressing only was placed. RESULTS: In all parameters studied (length of stay, i.v. requirements, swallowing, clear fluid diet and ambulation), the prosthesis group progressed more quickly and had a more rapid return to normal function. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the benefits of immediate prostheses for maxillectomy patients and justifies their continued use.
OBJECTIVE: To compare maxillectomy patients with immediate versus delayed placement of an obturator prosthesis in terms of patient outcomes. DESIGN: Retrospective review. OUTCOME MEASURES: The outcomes of 23 maxillectomy patients seen between 1975 and 1993 at St. Joseph's Health Centre in London, Ontario, were analyzed. METHODS: For 17 patients, a prosthesis was placed immediately as part of the operative procedure, and for 6 patients, an occlusive dressing only was placed. RESULTS: In all parameters studied (length of stay, i.v. requirements, swallowing, clear fluid diet and ambulation), the prosthesis group progressed more quickly and had a more rapid return to normal function. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the benefits of immediate prostheses for maxillectomy patients and justifies their continued use.