A maxillary obturator prosthesis for an active duty Air Force flyer: A case report

Abstract

Objectives: To fabricate a maxillary obturator prosthesis for an active duty pilot allowing him to return to active flying status. Methods: A 24-year-old male active duty U.S. Air Force pilot presented with a history of right posterior maxillectomy due to a keratocyst odontogenic tumor. The patient had been wearing an interim obturator prosthesis for 4 months and was removed from active duty flight status. A comprehensive oral evaluation was completed and a definitive obturator prosthesis was fabricated using a cast metal framework. Extraoral 3D stereophotogrammetry and a facial moulage were accomplished. The patient underwent evaluation for return to active flying status. Results: The patient returned to active duty flight status after passing all of the required tests. Conclusion: Obturator prostheses may be a suitable treatment option allowing a patient to conduct all of the required functions of an active flyer.