2025 Volume 17 Issue 3 Pages 177-180
Patient: A 65-year-old man underwent a partial maxillectomy for squamous cell carcinoma of the palatal gingiva in the maxillary anterior region. An Immediate Surgical Obturator (ISO) was fabricated preoperatively and placed immediately after surgery. A definitive maxillary obturator was delivered six months postoperatively.
Discussion: The standard placement of the ISO followed by the addition of an artificial tooth and sealing component after confirming the healing status of the surgical site enabled the rapid recovery of esthetics and articulatory function. This approach facilitated the stepwise resolution of postoperative functional impairments and was presumed to provide psychological support to the patient.
Conclusion: The modified ISO, worn during the transition period before the definitive obturator, enabled early restoration of esthetics and speech. This approach contributed to the patient’s early reintegration into society and improved overall postoperative adaptation.
