Maxillary reconstruction.

Postablative maxillary defects present a wide range of functional and esthetic challenges. Several classification schemes have added clarity to the subject, but the surgeon must maintain a clear vision of the defect and appreciate its reconstructive implications. Local tissue flaps remain valuable tools in the reconstruction of small isolated defects of the posterior maxilla and palate; however, microvascular free flaps have eclipsed prosthetic obturators as the mainstay of therapy in advanced postablative defects of the maxilla.