A Simplified Technique for Construction of an Interim Obturator for a Bilateral Total Maxillectomy Defect

Purpose: This report describes a simplified method for construction of an interim obturator for a huge maxillary defect. Materials and Methods: A medical grade-silicone obturator was fabricated indirectly on a duplicate cast of the surgical defect for a patient with a bilateral total maxillectomy. This silicone obturator was attached to an acrylic plate by means of mushroom-like extension tags projecting from the fitting surface of the acrylic palatal plate. Results: The obturator was well retained in the patient's mouth and markedly improved his ability to speak and swallow. Conclusion: This technique proved to be a simple, quick, and cost-effective method for construction of obturators for huge maxillary defects.