# Impact of Multimodal Rehabilitation Protocol in a 20-Year-Old Patient With Cherubism Undergone Facial Surgery: A Rare Case Report

## TL;DR

A 20-year-old man with cherubism, a rare jaw disorder, showed significant improvement after facial surgery and a five-week physiotherapy program.

## Contribution

This case report introduces physiotherapy as a novel rehabilitation approach for cherubism patients post-surgery.

## Key findings

- The patient showed enhanced respiratory function and increased cervical muscle strength after physiotherapy.
- Physiotherapy also improved respiratory clearance and reduced anxiety and depression levels.
- The case suggests that physiotherapy can be an effective part of cherubism rehabilitation.

## Abstract

Cherubism, a rare autosomal dominant disorder, presents with symmetrical, painless jaw extension due to fibrous tissue ossification, often referred to as hereditary fibrous dysplasia of the jaw. It typically manifests with progressive mandibular and maxillary swelling from childhood to adolescence, with exacerbation over time. A 20-year-old male presented with facial and jaw swelling, causing restricted jaw movements. Computed tomography confirmed the cherubism diagnosis. Subsequently, the patient underwent oral surgery for bone shaving and shaping. Post-surgery, a five-week physiotherapy regimen was initiated, emphasizing joint mobility preservation through active range-of-motion exercises and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation for facial expression and dyspnea alleviation. Following physiotherapy, significant improvements were observed, including enhanced respiratory function, increased cervical muscle strength, improved respiratory clearance, and reduced anxiety and depression levels. This case highlights the importance of physiotherapy in cherubism rehabilitation, a novel approach deserving further exploration.