Carcinoma
A 55-year-old male patient was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the left buccal mucosa and involving the alveolus of the same side. Surgical treatment resulted in an orofacial communication. Surgical reconstruction was done using the forehead skin graft. Unfortunately the graft was omitted and the tissue contraction and scarring formed a lump near the lower border of the mandible. Later, the patient was referred to the prosthetic treatment for the restoration of the defect. The patient's chief complaint was the escape of food and fluids through the orofacial communication The dehiscence defect was found on the left cheek and the patient expressed his desire to have a prosthesis that would improve function and esthetics. The defect was packed with lubricated gauze to prevent intrusion of the impression material into the oral cavity. The defect impression was made using irreversible hydrocolloid. The prosthesis was waxed to form. It was verified on the patient's face during the try-in appointment, and minor corrections to the wax-up were made. The waxed prosthesis was invested and the mold prepared. Intrinsically colored silicone was packed into the mold. The silicone cheek prosthesis was retrieved and finished. The prosthesis was placed on the patient. It was retained using elastic straps that were attached to the head cap. The prosthesis was found to be seated well with an effective seal during function. Follow-up was done once in a month for six months and the patient had no complaints.
