Two-piece Magnet-retained Obturator for Rehabilitation of Sequential Maxillectomy Defect: A Case Report

Abstract

Aim: To describe the prosthodontic rehabilitation of a patient with a complex bilateral maxillary defect following sequential maxillectomy using a two-piece magnet-retained obturator, and to evaluate its functional and clinical outcomes. Presentation of Case: A 41-year-old male farmer presented with pain and ulceration on the left hard palate for one month. He had undergone right infrastructure partial maxillectomy eight years earlier. Incisional biopsy confirmed aspergillosis of the maxilla. After surgical debridement, a surgical obturator was placed. Subsequently, an interim obturator fabricated using the lost-salt technique was delivered, followed by a definitive two-piece prosthesis retained by magnetic attachments. The two-piece design consisted of a metal base with magnetic keepers and an acrylic superstructure containing paired magnets, a hollow bulb and artificial teeth. Discussion: The definitive prosthesis provided stable retention, restored speech and swallowing, eliminated nasal regurgitation and improved facial aesthetics. The patient reported satisfaction with function, comfort and social confidence. The two-piece magnet-retained design offered stress-breaking protection to the residual structures and allowed easy cleaning. Conclusion: A two-piece magnet-retained obturator may be an effective and patient-friendly solution for rehabilitating selected complex maxillectomy defects, including those resulting from sequential surgeries. It may be considered a useful option when a conventional one-piece obturator is limited by prosthesis weight, retention difficulties or hygiene challenges.