Cystic Lesions of the Maxilla: II. Diagnostic Considerations and Treatment

Abstract

THE treatment of maxillary cysts is complicated frequently by the presence of two distinct surgical specialties; namely, oral surgery and otolaryngology, each having a different diagnostic and therapeutic approach to cystic lesions of the maxilla. The cosmetic factor, the functions of eating, speaking, and breathing, and the nearness of adjacent vital organs all have a conservative influence on the surgical treatment of maxillary cysts. The maxillary area lends itself to a variety of procedures depending upon the extent and location of the cyst, the presence of inflammation, the diagnostic type, and many times the experience of the operator. The usually benign nature of the lesions requires a conservative approach and for that reason demands a reasonably accurate diagnosis prior to surgery. Often the correct preoperative diagnosis cannot be made, however, a fair understanding of the diagnostic possibilities will be of great assistance. In treating large cysts of the maxilla, the