AMELOBLASTOMA: SURGICAL APPROACHES AND POST-RESECTION REHABILITATION

Ameloblastoma is a benign odontogenic tumor characterized by slow growth and local invasiveness. Although it does not exhibit metastatic potential, it requires clinical attention due to its aggressive behavior and high recurrence rate, demanding careful therapeutic planning. This article aims to review and analyze the main therapeutic approaches for the treatment of ameloblastoma, with emphasis on mandibular reconstruction techniques. An integrative literature review was conducted, considering studies published between 2015 and 2025 in both English and Portuguese. A total of 36 studies were selected to support the critical analysis and proposed discussion. The results indicate that functional restoration after ameloblastoma resection is complex due to the resulting surgical bone defects. En bloc resection with safety margins is recommended for multicystic forms, whereas conservative techniques such as enucleation and curettage are suitable for smaller lesions,albeit with higher recurrence rates. Marsupialization may be used to reduce tumor size prior to definitive surgery. Immediate reconstruction with bone grafts or vascularized flaps, particularly fibular flaps, provides superior functional and aesthetic outcomes, thereby improving patients quality of life. It is concluded that the choice of surgical technique must take into account the type and extent of the tumor. Furthermore, the reconstructive approach should be carefully planned, considering the preservation of facial aesthetics, masticatory function, and overall patient functionality, in order to ensure the best possible quality of life after treatment.