Previous NHS Post CCST Fellows

I thoroughly enjoyed my Maxillofacial Prosthodontics Fellowship Year. I completed my Specialist Training in Restorative Dentistry and received a good broad basis of knowledge. However I was very aware that Maxillofacial Prosthodontics is a vast and complex discipline in itself and that I had only just touched the topic in my specialist training. After completing my exit, I was fortunate to have been offered a chance to compete my Post CCST training in Maxillofacial Prosthodontics at both Manchester and Liverpool. Working with 2 different units and observing their preferred means of oral rehabilitation was an excellent learning opportunity in itself.

I worked with (and assisted) Prof Craig Barclay and Mr Chris Butterworth on both their outpatient clinics and theatre lists. I had ample opportunity to improve my skills in conventional prosthetics, fixed and removable implant supported superstructures, dental implant placement and mucogingival surgery. I assisted with the placement of numerous zygomatic implants and restored a number of zygomatic implant retained obturators, complete dentures and fixed bridges. The fellowship year was intense but very fulfilling. The majority of patients I treated had oral cancer, but I also rehabilitated a small number of patients with cleft lip/palate and hypodontia. During the year, I was also given the opportunity to present posters, speak at both regional and national conferences as well as to write papers. I have also been asked to present the research I conducted during my fellowship year at an International Conference. Towards the end of the year, I was given tremendous support, help and advice when applying for Consultant posts. This too was invaluable part of the fellowship.

I am so lucky to have had the chance to complete this year and cannot recommend the training highly enough for anyone who has an interest in the oral rehabilitation of oncology patients.