Post-Burn Microstomia Prevention: Application of a New Therapeutic Device

Abstract

Introduction: Our goal is to demonstrate an appliance that can prevent post-burn microstomia. Perioral burns result in contracture of facial tissue during healing. It may cause limited oral access due to the sphincteral nature of orbicularis oris muscle. The literature has demonstrated that burn contractures and scar formation can be modified with pressure and splinting. Technique: The patient was a 50-year-old woman who had a 3rd degree burn. She had been treated with medicinal and palliative treatments, but due to burn scar that involved all her peri-oral tissues she had progressive microstomia. We fabricated microstomia prevention device for her in order to prevent further progression of microstomia. As the patient was completely edentulous, we decided to fabricate a tissue-supported appliance. Conclusion: This appliance is made with very simple equipment and is easy to fabricate.