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. 2025 Sep 15.
doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000011956. Online ahead of print.

Secondary Free Flap Reconstruction of the Maxilla Following Obturator Failure

Jolly S Grewal  1 , Mark K Wax  2 , Yadranko Ducic  3
Affiliations

Secondary Free Flap Reconstruction of the Maxilla Following Obturator Failure

Jolly S Grewal et al. J Craniofac Surg. .

Abstract

Background: In patients with acquired maxillary defects, obturators are often effective, but some fail, necessitating further surgery, typically via free flap reconstruction. Long-term functional outcomes in these cases are underreported. This study examines the outcomes of secondary free flap reconstruction in patients who failed obturator use, focusing on enteral and tracheostomy tube dependence, dental implantation rates, and complications.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients who were initially planned for maxillary reconstruction with an obturator but were unable to retain it due to mechanical issues, not financial constraints.

Results: Seventy-one patients were included. There were no flap losses. Postoperatively, 98.6% (70 patients) underwent tracheostomy decannulation, 90.1% (64 patients) tolerated an oral diet, and 49.3% (35 patients) received successful dental implants. Postoperative complications occurred in 11.3% (8 patients).

Conclusions: Secondary free flap reconstruction yields favorable outcomes in patients with failed obturators, improving tracheostomy dependence, diet tolerance, and dental implantation success. Financial considerations may influence flap choice.

Keywords: Dental implantation; enteral tube dependence; maxillary reconstruction; obturator failure; secondary flap reconstruction.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

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