A Case of the Maxillofacial Defect Patient: Clinical Application of Foaming Polyurethane Elastomer for Facial Prosthesis and Hollow Obturator Using Soft Material

It is necessary for the edentulous maxillofacial patient to improve not only the physical function and appearance but also psychological recovery. A case of maxillofacial prosthesis using new material for obturator is reported. The patient is 70-year-old man who received surgical resection of the left maxilla, including orbita and upper half of the ramus of the mandible, to remove a squamous cell carcinoma. In the post-operation course, he visited our clinic to restore mastication, articulation and esthetics. A maxillary prosthesis with a hollow type obturator using light-cured resin type soft lining material was fabricated. To recover the left facial defect, the epithesis using foaming polyurethane was fabricated. 15 months have passed since completion of treatment, however, there was no tissue erosion or bleeding in the supporting area of the maxillary sinus. Physical function was considerably improved and the patient was pleased with his esthetics.