and radiotherapy. Advances have been made these recent years with improved methods of the oral tissue reconstruction and rehabilitation that have significantly changed clients quality of life and disease outcome. Its important to emphasize that the disciplinary approach in the treatment of oral cavity cancer is vital to

in reaching the best results of the treatment. It is necessary a close interaction between the head and neck oncologist and other members of the team

Tumors of the superior aerodigestive tract can be hard to treat because of the complex nature of the oral cavity. Great advances have occurred in radiology imaging helping the professionals evaluating and diagnosing better different kinds of tumors. This includes resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography, (CT) scans, magnetic), and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning. In addition, better medical management, improved anesthetic techniques and close post-operative monitoring can allow clients to undergo complex procedures with no significant complications.

The major goals of oral reconstruction remains creating:

Normal oral function,

Improve cosmetic result

Permit prompt and careful follow up.

This could be very challenging as oral cavity tumors can extent into specific delicate regions like paranasal  sinuses, mandible, orbit and skull base. If this happens it could significantly compromise vital functions like respiration, speech, swallowing, or mastication.

Today knowing the anatomy of the oral vascular and neural system in collaboration with the development of more compatible biomaterials have allowed surgeons to perform the most complex of reconstructive techniques. I will mention some of these techniques: (i.e  Free bone grafting, Rearrangement of the local tissue, Pedicled flaps, Vascularized free tissue transfer). This allows the successful transfer of muscles, skin, and bone to an different hostile environment.

Its important to say that for a complete successful rehabilitation its necessary the support of a variety of medical services performed by professionals of different specialities like dietitians, speech pathologists, nursing stuff etc

The last thing to mention in conclusion is that the development of prostheses and dental implatology have increased the chances of rehabilitation in patients with oral malignancies

This article is copyrighted and originally prepared by Maria, Dental Student at U of T. For more info visit our TERMS OF USE

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