maxillofaziale

Maxillofacial refers to the anatomical region encompassing the jaws, facial bones, and surrounding soft tissues, including the oral cavity and the temporomandibular joints. The term is used in several languages with minor variations (for example maxillofacciale or maxillofacial in Italian or Portuguese). The field covers diseases, injuries, and defects affecting the facial skeleton, mouth, and adjacent structures, from congenital anomalies to trauma and cancer.

Maxillofacial surgery is a surgical specialty dedicated to diagnosis and treatment of these conditions. Procedures commonly performed include treatment of facial and dental trauma, dental extractions and implant placement, reconstructive surgery after injury or tumor removal, orthognathic (jaw) surgery to correct misalignment, treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders, and repair of cleft lip and palate and other craniofacial anomalies. The specialty often handles head and neck cancer resections with reconstructive reconstruction, bone grafting, and flap procedures. Some practitioners also perform select cosmetic procedures of the face and jaws, though cosmetic work is often carried out in collaboration with plastic surgery.

Training and practice: In many countries, practice requires dental training followed by a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery; in others, a medical degree plus surgical training; board certification or equivalent credentials are typical. The specialty works closely with dentists, otolaryngologists, plastic surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and anesthesiologists to deliver comprehensive care.