Masticatory function of postoperative tumor patients rehabilitated with osseointegrated implants.

PURPOSE: This study determined the level of masticatory function that can be achieved with osseointegrated implants in postoperative tumor patients.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Masticatory function was evaluated in 15 postoperative tumor patients with implants, 22 nontumor patients with implants, and 15 natural dentate controls. The area of occlusal contact was evaluated with a pressure-sensitive, color-developing bite sheet analyzed by computer. Chewing performance was evaluated by a low-adhesive, color-developing, chewing-gum system.

RESULTS

Subjects in the tumor group had load-bearing tooth contacts similar to those of the natural dentate controls and nontumor implant patients. Continuity of the mandible was essential to sustain occlusal load. The presence of the hypoglossal nerve was the main factor in determining restoration of chewing performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical efforts to preserve the mobility of the residual tongue and prosthetic approaches to restore impaired mobility to as great an extent as possible are especially important for better functional rehabilitation of patients who have defects of the hypoglossal nerve.