Dentoalveolar outcomes in maxillary reconstruction: A retrospective review of 85 maxillectomy reconstructions

BACKGROUND Although microvascular free flaps are often used to reconstruct maxillary defects, dentoalveolar rehabilitation is arguably less common despite its importance to midface function and aesthetics. The aim of this study is to review the contemporary management of maxillary defects in a single quaternary referral institution to identify factors that assist or impede dentoalveolar rehabilitation. METHODS A retrospective review of maxillary reconstructions performed between February 2017 and December 2020 was performed. Patient characteristics, defect classification, operative techniques, complications and dentoalveolar outcomes were recorded. RESULTS A total of 85 maxillary reconstructions were performed in 73 patients. Of the 64 patients where dental rehabilitation was required, 31 received a functional denture (48%) with 24 (38%) being implant-retained. Significant predictors of successful rehabilitation included the use of virtual surgical planning (VSP; 86% vs. 25%, p