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52129 - Bilateral Maxilla Resection

MBS service description:

Maxilla, total resection of both maxillae (H) (Anaes.) (Assist.)
Schedule Fee:
1373.2
@85% Benefit Fee:
@75% Benefit Fee:
Last updated on
March 29, 2025

When is item code 52129 (Bilateral Maxilla Resection) typically used?

The need for total resection of both maxillae arises when a patient has catastrophic bilateral pathology—such as extensive tumours or infections—affecting both maxillary bones, requiring complete removal under anesthesia with assistance in a hospital to eradicate disease and plan reconstruction. This rare procedure is indicated for conditions like bilateral maxillary sarcomas or massive cysts where both sides are unsalvageable, critical in the maxillofacial region where losing both maxillae impacts facial structure, breathing, and eating.

Reasons include:

  • Bilateral malignancy: Cancer across both maxillae might need total resection to stop spread.
  • Extensive cysts: Huge cysts destroying both bones could collapse the face, requiring removal.
  • Infection: Widespread osteomyelitis prompts excision for survival.
  • Total collapse: Severe damage threatens all maxillary functions, needing surgery.

For instance, a patient with bilateral maxillary cancer might need this to survive, with assistance for precision. In aged care, an elderly patient with dual maxillary infection could require this to prevent sepsis, given their frailty. By removing both maxillae, this service eliminates pathology, enables rebuilding, and protects life, making it essential for extreme bilateral maxillary disease.

Benefits to the patient

Surgeons performing total resection of both of the patient’s maxillae under anesthesia with assistance deliver profound benefits for extensive disease. A primary advantage is eradicating severe disease. This procedure removes the patient’s bilateral maxillary pathology, halting its impact—crucial for 'bilateral maxillectomy benefits.' It also supports reconstruction by preparing the site, enhancing the patient’s restorative options. Furthermore, it prevents fatal complications by excising all affected tissue, safeguarding the patient’s life. For surgeons researching 'total maxilla resection advantages,' this assisted service ensures patients experience disease elimination, reconstruction readiness, and critical health protection, providing a comprehensive approach to severe maxillary conditions.

Recovery considerations

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

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