A case report of improved speech function by applying a palatal plate for postoperative palatal defects

Abstract

Patient: A 48-year-old male patient who underwent excision of a pleomorphic adenoma on the maxillary hard palate was diagnosed with a speech disorder due to postoperative palatal mucosal defects. Speech intelligibility improved following the installation of an obturator that covered the defect area.

Discussion: The patient’s speech intelligibility, which had been affected following excision of the pleomorphic adenoma, was improved with a fabricated obturator. Depending on the excision range, it may be important to select a reconstruction method that takes into consideration the articulation, mastication, and swallowing functions.

Conclusion: It was shown that in this case with postoperative palatal defects, speech intelligibility was improved by installing an obturator with a resin bed and the patient getting used to the obturator.