Surgery for carcinoma of the oral cavity

The incidence of oral cancer, the majority of which are squamous cell carcinoma, rose dramatically in the United States and Europe especially in the age cohorts born after 1915. This increase is most likely related to increases in exposure to tobacco and alcohol two known risk factors for this disease. The oral cavity is a complex highly visible space with important functions in speech, mastication, bolus preparation and the initiation of the swallowing mechanism and therefore cancers in this area have a potentially high impact on the quality of life for patients. Surgical excision is the mainstay of initial definitive therapy for oral carcinomas. The aims of therapy are complete removal of the tumor, preservation of the original form and function of the oral cavity, and use of reconstructive techniques to restore any deficits to the function of the oral cavity. This article will discuss some of the principles of surgical excision.