A clinical evaluation of 20 patients with ameloblastoma following partial mandibular resection

The reconstruction of mandibular defects post resection of the mandible presents challenges for the head and neck reconstructive surgeon. An objective evaluation of facial appearance, potential difficulties with opening the mouth, occlusion, and the condition of the reconstruction plate is required. A clinical assessment is also needed. The study objective was to report the findings of a clinical evaluation of patients with ameloblastoma following mandibular resection using a reconstruction plate. Methods used is a cross-sectional study was conducted on 20 such patients from 2012-2015. Facial asymmetry was investigated in relation to soft tissue features using extra oral photography depicting a full face frontal view, with a reference landmark, and an asymmetry index for the measurements. Intraoral and panoramic photographic examinations were conducted to clinically assess functional change. As a results: Facial asymmetry was identified in 45% of the patients. Functional changes were reported in 90% of the patients, who achieved appropriate occlusion of their remaining teeth. All were able to open their mouths without restriction. On orthopantomography, 15% of the patients had plate reconstruction-related complications. It was concluded that good functional and aesthetically pleasing facial effects are possible with the use of reconstruction plates when addressing mandibular defects.