Excision of torus mandibularis
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Excision of Torus Mandibularis
(Also known as Removal of Mandibular Tori, Mandibular Torus Excision)
Summary
Excision of torus mandibularis is a surgical procedure to remove bony growths (tori) from the inner surface of the lower jaw (mandible). These growths are benign and vary in size but can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with oral functions.
Purpose
The procedure addresses the presence of a torus mandibularis, which can cause issues such as:
- Discomfort while eating, speaking, or wearing dental appliances (like dentures).
- Interference with dental procedures. The goal is to alleviate these symptoms, improve oral function, and allow for better-fitting dental appliances if needed.
Indications
- Persistent discomfort or pain due to the tori.
- Difficulty in fitting or wearing dentures.
- Obstruction during normal oral activities (eating, speaking).
- Recurrent trauma or ulceration of the tissue covering the tori.
Preparation
- Fasting for several hours before the procedure if general anesthesia is used.
- Stopping certain medications as advised by the doctor (e.g., blood thinners).
- Pre-procedure dental examination and imaging (e.g., X-rays).
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia to numb the area, or general anesthesia, if needed.
- Incision: A small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bony growth.
- Excision: The surgeon uses specialized instruments to carefully remove the torus.
- Closing the Incision: The gum tissue is sutured back together.
- Post-procedure: Gauze may be applied to control bleeding.
Duration
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Setting
This procedure can be performed in an outpatient clinic, dental office, or a surgical center.
Personnel
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a specialized dentist.
- Nursing staff for assistance and patient care.
- An anesthesiologist if general anesthesia is used.
Risks and Complications
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Swelling or bruising.
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the tongue or lower lip.
- Rarely, damage to the nerves.
Benefits
- Relief from pain and discomfort.
- Improved ability to wear dental appliances.
- Enhanced oral function and overall quality of life. These benefits are typically realized within a few weeks after healing.
Recovery
- Post-procedure care includes managing pain with medications, applying ice packs, and maintaining oral hygiene.
- Soft diet for a few days to avoid irritating the surgical site.
- Sutures may need to be removed at a follow-up appointment.
- Full recovery usually takes 1-2 weeks.
Alternatives
- Observation and monitoring if symptoms are mild or not bothersome.
- Modifying dental appliances to reduce discomfort.
- Non-surgical treatments are limited due to the nature of the bony growths.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, if local anesthesia is used, patients will feel numbness but should not feel pain. Postoperatively, there might be some swelling, mild to moderate pain, and discomfort which can be managed with medications. Ice packs and soft foods can help ease the recovery process.
Pain management will include prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers, and care measures will ensure a comfortable and smooth recovery period.