Maxillectomy Surgery

Overview

Definition
A maxillectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing all or part of the maxillary bone (upper jaw) to treat benign or malignant tumors. This surgery is commonly used to address cancers of the oral cavity, nasal cavity, and maxillary sinuses.

Alternate Name

Maxillectomy

Body Location

Upper jaw (maxilla)

Procedure Type

Surgical

Types of Maxillectomy Surgery

Medial Maxillectomy
- Removes the part of the maxilla closest to the nose while preserving the eye and hard palate.
Infrastructure Maxillectomy
- Involves removing the hard palate, lower maxilla, and some teeth while preserving the orbital floor (bone beneath the eye).
Suprastructure Maxillectomy
- Removes the upper maxilla and orbital floor. Reconstruction may be necessary if the eye is affected.
Subtotal Maxillectomy
- Removes part of the maxilla based on tumor size and location, sparing other areas.
Total Maxillectomy
- Removes the entire maxilla, hard palate, and orbital floor on one side of the face.

Preparation for Maxillectomy Surgery

Avoid eating or drinking after midnight before surgery.
Inform the doctor of any allergies or medications.
Discontinue aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamin E at least a week before surgery.
Remove all jewelry, makeup, and other cosmetics before the procedure.

Procedure

During the surgery, the surgeon removes the tumor along with parts of the maxilla, teeth, and surrounding healthy tissue. This creates a space in the roof of the mouth, which may be reconstructed with a skin graft to assist in speaking and swallowing.

Recovery

Recovery time depends on the extent of the surgery, often requiring a hospital stay of 1-2 weeks. A temporary feeding tube may be necessary in some cases. Post-surgery care includes pain management, preventing infections, and rehabilitative therapies for speech and swallowing.

Follow-Up Care

Avoid strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks post-surgery.
Use a soft toothbrush and saline irrigations for oral hygiene.
Start with clear liquids and gradually progress to soft foods. Avoid hot foods and drinks.
Take prescribed antibiotics and pain medications as directed.
Maintain regular follow-ups with the surgeon.

Risks

Anesthesia Effects
- Possible wheezing, rashes, swelling, or low blood pressure.
Numbness or Weakness
- May occur in facial, neck, or shoulder areas depending on the tumor’s location.
Epiphora
- Watery eyes due to postoperative swelling, which subsides with time.
Vision Changes
- Altered vision may occur.
Other Risks
- Bleeding and infection.

Maxillectomy is a complex but effective procedure for addressing tumors in the upper jaw region, with proper care ensuring a smooth recovery.

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