In Samara, a patient facing salivary gland cancer received a pioneering solution: a titanium jaw prosthesis crafted and implanted by surgeons at Samara State Medical University. The report, originating from a Russian newspaper, highlights a milestone in craniofacial reconstruction where a prosthetic implant was tailored to mirror the lower jaw’s natural contours, supporting both function and aesthetics.
The journey began over a year ago when the patient underwent tumor removal and reconstruction using his own tissue harvested from the ilium. Although this approach preserved some facial structure, a year later a fracture developed in the lower jaw, necessitating the removal of the newly placed tissue segment. The setback left the patient unable to chew food normally and prompted a search for a durable, functional solution that could restore daily eating and speaking abilities.
Working with a multidisciplinary team at Samara State Medical University, specialists designed a titanium endoprosthesis specifically for this case. The prosthesis was engineered to align with the existing jaw defect and to integrate smoothly with the patient’s remaining bone. In addition, mineral hydroxyapatite was applied to contact surfaces in proximity to bone tissue. This additive aimed to improve osseointegration and reduce the risk of rejection, a common concern in implant-based bone replacement.
With the new implant in place, surgeons achieved a dual restoration: facial structure and masticatory function. The titanium endoprosthesis accommodates future prosthetic teeth by providing holes and channels for a dental prosthesis, enabling the patient to pursue routine chewing alongside potential dental rehabilitation. This level of integration illustrates a thoughtful approach to combining structural support with functional restoration, offering a pathway to regain independence in daily meals and communication.
According to the lead surgeon, Andrey Nikolaenko, the achievement marks a significant advance. He noted that while prosthetic modeling in similar cases often resolves within about seven days, this particular project required three weeks to finalize. The extended timeline reflected the complexity of customizing an endoprosthesis that precisely matches the patient’s unique jaw geometry and anticipates future dental integration. The outcome demonstrates how patient-specific design can enhance both stability and comfort in craniofacial implants.
Experts emphasize that such procedures not only restore appearance but also contribute to improved quality of life by enabling effective chewing, speaking, and social interaction. Recovery trajectories can vary, yet cases like this underscore the potential for innovative materials and personalized planning to transform outcomes for individuals facing advanced cancers and complex reconstructive needs. The patient’s experience provides a hopeful reference point for others dealing with similar challenges, illustrating how modern reconstructive techniques can adapt to evolving clinical circumstances and patient goals. [Citation: Russian newspaper]