Evaluating Functional Outcome of Oblique Cut across Mentum in Advanced Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Introduction:

Segmental / hemi mandibulectomy is standard for advanced oral Squamous cell cancer. Sometimes the mentum needed to include to achieve an adequate resection. Loss of which often leads to a variety of complications. Evaluation of the functional outcome has been done in those cases which were unsuitable for free flap reconstruction so & an oblique cut was placed across mentum & pedicle flap was done instead.

Material and methods:

In this study from 26 December 2022 to 25 March 2023, the effect of oblique cut across mentum in 10 patients of oral  SCC were analysed for functional outcome over next 3 months.

Results:

Successful decanulation from tracheostomy tube were achieved in all patients by 6weeks. By 12 weeks Nasogastric tube removal and commencement of oral feeding were achieved in all. Complete oral competency were achieved in all by 12 weeks.

Conclusion:

Mandibular reconstruction is necessary to restore postoperative function. Free flaps remain the first choice. But sometimes the patients’ age, overall health & co- morbidities are not in favour; hence pedicle flaps are needed. Preserving the mentum with clear margin then requires very stringent case selection. This novel approach, in selected cases may solve a lot of functional issues.