A new, simple maxillary‐sparing tongue depressor for external mandibular radiotherapy: A case report

Abstract Background. In external radiotherapy, the use of leaded intraoral devices to shield adjacent tissues is well described, but stabilization of the mandible is often realized with standard bite blocks, which do not allow a good stabilization of the mandible. Methods and Results. A 40‐year‐old patient presenting with a local recurrence of a tumor of the floor of the mouth underwent external radiotherapy. To shield the maxilla during mandibular irradiation and to ensure mandible and tongue immobility during external radiotherapy, a custom‐made device was realized. The apparatus consists of a polymethylmethacrylate resin plate and 2 wedges. Only 2 steps are needed. Conclusion. The realization is simple and cheap, the apparatus is comfortable, and modifications are easy. It can be used in all patients, except in patients with totally mandibular edentulous with severe bone resorption. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009