What are the complications of maxillary cyst surgery?

Generally, maxillary cyst surgery may lead to sequelae such as facial deformity, abnormal tooth sensation, communication between the nasal cavity and oral cavity, wound infection, and maxillary bone defects. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Facial Deformity

The jawbone is a primary structure supporting the midfacial contour. During surgical removal, to prevent cyst recurrence, part of the bone tissue is often removed, which may affect the facial appearance, potentially causing facial depression and impairing facial aesthetics.

2. Abnormal Tooth Sensation

Maxillary bone cysts are often adjacent to dental nerves. During surgery, to completely remove the cyst, the牙神经 (dental nerves), such as the nasopalatine nerve and superior alveolar nerve, may be stretched, compressed, or directly injured. After nerve damage, teeth in the innervated area may experience numbness, hypoesthesia, or hypersensitivity.

3. Communication Between the Nasal Cavity and Oral Cavity

If the maxillary cyst is large and extensive surgical removal is required, it may perforate the bone and mucosa between the maxillary sinus and the oral cavity. Once communication between the oral cavity and nasal cavity occurs, food debris and air may enter the nasal cavity during eating or speaking, causing discomfort, infection risk, and impaired speech clarity. Secondary surgery for repair is often required.

4. Wound Infection

The surgical wound is exposed to the oral environment, which contains numerous bacteria. If oral hygiene is not properly maintained postoperatively or if the patient's immunity is low, bacteria may invade the wound and cause infection. Symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, increased pain, and purulent discharge at the wound site. Severe infection may impair wound healing, prolong recovery time, require antibiotic treatment, or even necessitate wound debridement.

5. Maxillary Bone Defect

For larger cysts, a significant amount of bone tissue may be removed along with the cyst during surgery to reduce the recurrence risk, leading to maxillary bone defects. Bone defects may compromise the supportive function of the maxilla, causing facial collapse and deformity, affecting masticatory function and aesthetics. Severe cases may require bone grafting surgery to restore the bone structure.

To reduce the likelihood of postoperative complications, patients should choose reputable medical institutions and undergo surgery under the guidance of qualified physicians. Postoperatively, patients should also pay attention to proper care, closely monitor wound healing, prevent infection, and attend regular follow-up visits and rehabilitation therapy.