Evaluation of the quality of life of patients with maxillofacial defects after prosthodontic therapy with obturator prostheses

The purpose of this study was to investigate how patients with maxillofacial defects evaluate their quality of life after maxillectomy and prosthodontic therapy with obturator prostheses. 43 patients were included in the study (25 female, 18 male). 31 (72%) patients completed a standardized questionnaire of 143 items and then answered additional questions in a standardized interview. Global quality of life after prosthodontic therapy with obturator prostheses was 64% (+/- 22.9) on average. Functioning of the obturator prosthesis, impairment of ingestion, speech and appearance, the extent of therapy, and the existance of pain had significant impact on the quality of life (p < 0.005). Orofacial rehabilitation of patients with maxillofacial defects using obturator protheses is an appropriate treatment modality. To improve the situation of patients prior to and after maxillectomy sufficient information about the treatment, adequate psychological care and speech therapy should be provided.