| Abstract: |
Advances in surgical management of oral cancer have occurred due to technical advances in instrumentation, imaging techniques, and improvement in understanding of the biology of the disease coupled with multidisciplinary involvement in the management of advanced tumors. Improved understanding of the biology of progression of oral cancer has led to the development of conservation surgical procedures including preservation of the mandible and modifications in neck dissections to reduce morbidity. Advances in reconstructive surgery, particularly with the introduction of microvascular surgery and osseointegrated implants has allowed us to totally restore form and function to improve the quality of life. Advances in imaging techniques with the availability of anatomic and functional image fusion technology has improved accurate localization of tumors resulting in precision in surgical resection. In addition to this, technical advances in instrumentation have permitted employment of image guided surgery for better localization of tumors and assure completeness of resection of tumors in difficult locations. Similarly, technical advances in instrumentation such as endoscopes and flexible instruments have enabled us to develop the whole specialty of minimally invasive and endoscopie surgery for certain tumors. Coupling of these viewing techniques with improved laser delivery systems has allowed tumor destruction in difficult locations. Thus, technological advances have led to the development of safer and complex operations for the treatment of oral cancer with the goal of preservation or restoration of form and function to improve the quality of life. |
