Challenges in rehabilitation of oncological defect of the mandible – A comprehensive review

Prosthetic rehabilitation following mandibulectomy presents unique challenges due to the complexity of restoring both form and function in the affected region. An electronic search was conducted across four databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct in the English language from January 1995 to June 2024 using the key terms mandibulectomy OR hemi-mandibulectomy OR Cantor and Curtis OR Panel OR Guiding flange AND denture OR prosthetic AND flap OR surgery OR prosthetic rehabilitation. In addition, a hand search was performed in the institutional library on Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry , Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society , Journal of Prosthodontics , International Journal of Prosthodontics and Indian Journal of Prosthodontic Research . This review concluded that the loss of mandibular continuity impacts mastication, speech, esthetics, and psychological well-being. Successful rehabilitation requires careful consideration of the extent of resection, soft-tissue support, and the presence of residual structures. Advances in surgical techniques, such as free flap reconstructions and the integration of osseo-integrated implants, have enhanced outcomes but also introduced technical intricacies. Patient-specific factors, such as systemic health and postoperative complications, further influence the prosthetic approach. Rehabilitation of mandibular defect started with correction of deviations and restores the esthetics which improves the quality of life of patient.