ABSTRACT
The oral cavity participates in mastication, deglutition, and speech. Extirpative defects result in loss of form and function. Reconstruction of these defects is challenging. However, advances in microsurgery have allowed the surgeon to achieve better function and aesthetics in the reconstruction of oral cavity defects. The use of innervated flaps has been successful in some centers, providing sensation to the oral cavity, enhancing the ability to sense ingested food in the mouth, and facilitating mastication. The radial forearm flap remains the workhorse for coverage of the majority of oral cavity defects. Reconstruction of total glossectomy defects continues to evolve with better results, although fine motor function still cannot be achieved. Although the majority of patients with large, invasive oral cancers succumb to their disease, reconstructive surgery can vastly improve the quality of their remaining life.
KEYWORDS
Oral cavity - cancer - reconstruction
