Management of the mandible in oral cancer

Modern head and neck surgery has focused on patient rehabilitation and restoration of form and function in the treatment of oral cancers. An important aspect of that process has been the conservation of the mandible in tumor ablation and the reconstruction of the mandible if segmental resection is indicated. This article outlines the science and clinical data behind rim mandibulectomy and the mandibular osteotomy and "swing" to gain access to tumors of the posterior tongues and pharynx. Additionally, the various methods of reconstruction of the mandible in use today as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each are addressed.