Pressure necrosis of the maxilla following prolonged orotracheal intubation: A rare case report

Title: Pressure necrosis of the maxilla following prolonged orotracheal intubation: A rare case report

Abstract:

Pressure necrosis of the maxilla is an exceptionally rare complication associated with prolonged orotracheal intubation. This case report describes a 63-year-old edentulous female referred to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery department by her general dental practitioner due to two areas of exposed, non-vital bone in the anterior maxilla. The lesions had been present for approximately three years and were attributed by the patient to a prolonged intensive care admission in 2021, during which she underwent extended orotracheal intubation.

Clinical examination and investigations confirmed osteonecrosis of the anterior maxilla. The patient had no history of bisphosphonate therapy, radiation exposure, or other known risk factors for osteonecrosis. This case highlights the potential for pressure-induced ischemic damage to maxillary bone in edentulous patients.

The aim of this report is to increase awareness of maxillary pressure necrosis as a possible, though rare, consequence of prolonged intubation. Early recognition and appropriate referral are crucial for timely management and prevention of further complications.

Biography:

Marwa studied Dentistry at the Khartoum University, Sudan and graduated in 2004 and completed her internship at Khartoum teaching dental hospital. She worked as GDP in Sudan for few years before moving to the UK, where she passed the ORE and registered with the GDC in 2015. She earned MFDS from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2018. Marwa practiced as a GDP in the UK until 2023, then joined the Dental Core Training specialty program. Now in her third year, she is expanding her clinical expertise.