Rehabilitation of Post-COVID-19 Mucormycosis Surgical Defect Using an Unconventional Obturator with Precision Attachments: A Case Report

Abstract

Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, is a rare fungal disease caused by a filamentous fungus that primarily affects the nose, paranasal sinuses, and brain. A significant number of mucormycosis cases were reported during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of which required surgical intervention. Parts of orofacial structures such as the alveolar process of the maxilla, palate, contents of the orbit, and nasal cavity were often removed to prevent a fatalities. The extent of hard tissue structures removed depended on the degree of involvement. Following surgical procedures, individuals were left with a variety of defects, ranging from lost alveolar processes and teeth to partial or total maxillectomy, and oronasal communication due to a missing palate. In such situations, Prosthodontists play a critical role in rehabilitating patients prosthetically. They analyse the defects in each case and design a prosthesis to replace the missing structures, aiding in the restoration of function and aesthetics. Hereby, the authors present a case report of 36-year-old-male with missing teeth in the upper left posterior and anterior regions and this clinical report aimed to describe an innovative aesthetic alternative to conventional cast partial obturators using OT attachments to achieve retention.