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52123 - Total Mandible Resection

MBS service description:

Mandible, total resection of both sides, including condylectomies if performed (H) (Anaes.) (Assist.)
Schedule Fee:
1067
@85% Benefit Fee:
@75% Benefit Fee:
Last updated on
March 29, 2025

When is item code 52123 (Total Mandible Resection) typically used?

The need for total resection of both sides of the mandible, including condylectomies if performed, arises when a patient has severe bilateral pathology—such as extensive tumours, cysts, or infections—requiring complete removal of the mandible under anesthesia with assistance in a hospital to eliminate disease and prepare for reconstruction. This procedure is indicated for rare, aggressive conditions like bilateral osteosarcoma where the entire jaw is compromised, including condyles if affected. It is critical in the maxillofacial region where total jaw loss drastically impacts function and survival.

Reasons include:

  • Bilateral malignancy: Osteosarcoma across both mandibular sides might need total resection to stop spread.
  • Massive cysts: Huge bilateral cysts destroying the jaw require complete removal.
  • Condylectomy: Tumours or arthritis in both condyles might necessitate their inclusion.
  • Infection: Widespread osteomyelitis prompts total excision for healing.

For instance, a patient with bilateral mandibular cancer might need this to survive, with assistance for precision and reconstruction planning. In aged care, an elderly patient with severe bilateral infection could require this to prevent sepsis, given their frailty. By removing the entire mandible, this service eradicates pathology, enables rebuilding, and protects health, making it essential for catastrophic bilateral jaw disease.

Benefits to the patient

Surgeons performing total resection of both sides of the patient’s mandible, with optional condylectomies, under anesthesia with assistance offer extensive benefits for severe cases. A primary advantage is eliminating severe disease. This procedure removes the patient’s entire diseased mandible, halting progression—crucial for 'total mandibulectomy benefits.' It also enables reconstruction by preparing the site, supporting the patient’s restorative options. Furthermore, it prevents fatal spread by excising all affected tissue, protecting the patient’s life. For surgeons researching 'bilateral mandible resection advantages,' this assisted service ensures patients experience disease eradication, reconstruction readiness, and critical health protection, making it a vital approach for advanced mandibular pathology.

Recovery considerations

Recovery of 8-12 weeks with major functional loss until reconstructed; hospital stay required.

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