The Influence of Prosthetic Obturators on Quality of Life in Individuals with Maxillectomy Defects

Authors

• Minseok Kim, University of the PacificFollow

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, there has been a growing focus on understanding the impact of oral cancer on patients' quality of life. Prosthetic rehabilitation techniques, such as maxillary obturators, often in conjunction with reconstructive surgery, have emerged as interventions to address the challenges posed by post-maxillectomy abnormalities.

Objective: This study aims to systematically review and evaluate the effectiveness of maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation using obturators in enhancing the quality of life of patients following maxillectomy.

Methodology: Systematic review of identified literature spanning the timeframe from 2000 to 2020 was used. The comprehensive search encompassed widely recognized databases including PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and used PRISMA search strategy.

Results: Among the 841 identified sources only thirteen were reviewed in details. Studies demonstrated the degree of therapy, pain, ingestion and speech impairment, and obturator functioning were the main factors affecting patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following radiation therapy and resection.

Conclusion: The use of an obturator prosthesis improves the quality of life of patients following surgery. However, larger, well-designed, multicenter, and longitudinal studies are necessary to evaluate the effects of various reconstruction and retention techniques, as well as sociodemographic factors on patients’ HRQOL.

Recommended Citation

Kim, Minseok (2026) "The Influence of Prosthetic Obturators on Quality of Life in Individuals with Maxillectomy Defects," Oral Health: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56031/3066-490X.1007
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/oral-health/vol2/iss1/4