The role of the maxillofacial prosthodontist in detection of recurrent head and neck cancer

Abstract

Maxillofacial prosthodontists are in a unique position to aid in the detection of recurrent and secondary malignancies of the head and neck cancer patient. This is related directly to their intimate knowledge of normal and abnormal oral anatomy and to the large amount of time they spend with patients during treatment and follow-up. I have detected many recurrent and secondary tumors during the few years I have been in a relatively low volume maxillofacial prosthetics practice. The patient's recall visits to the maxillofacial prosthodontist should be evenly spaced between the patient's visits to the head and neck surgeon when possible. By earlier detection and immediate referral to the surgeon, there is the possibility of a higher long-term cure rate in head and neck cancer patients who are receiving maxillofacial prosthetic treatment.