Hanyang Med Rev.  2009 Aug;29(3):220-230. 10.7599/hmr.2009.29.3.220.

Surgical Management of Oral Cancer

• Tae K

• KMID: 1505098
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7599/hmr.2009.29.3.220

Abstract

Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. Treatment is directed at the elimination of the primary tumor and neck metastasis with minimal morbidity to the patients. Surgery is the most well established mode of initial definitive treatment for a majority of oral cancer. In spite of a significant paradigm shift in the treatment of many head and neck cancer toward using primary chemoradiation, this treatment is not frequently applied to the oral cavity. Small oral cancers are usually managed by surgery alone. Advanced oral cancers are usually treated with primary surgery followed by radiation. Primary site, location, size, proximity to bone, and depth of invasion are factors which influence a particular surgical approach.

Keyword

Oral cancer; Surgery; Squamous cell carcinoma; Head and neck cancer

MeSH Terms

Carcinoma, Squamous Cell
Head and Neck Neoplasms
Humans
Mouth
Mouth Neoplasms*
Neck
Neoplasm Metastasis

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Visor flap approach to the anterior oral cavity without midline lip splitting incision.

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  Fig. 2 Lower cheek flap approach. The lower lip can be divided in the midline and cheek elevated to provide better access.

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  Fig. 3 Upper cheek flap approach used for exposure for resection of palate or upper gingival cancer.

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  Fig. 4 Mandibular lingual release approach. Delivery of the tongue and floor of mouth into the neck.

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  Fig. 5 Mandibulotomy approach will provide excellent exposure to the posterior oral cavity and oropharynx in those patients without mandibule involvement.

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