RESUMO
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The objectives of treating oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer are complete removal of tumor, restoration of function and aesthetics, and such treatments require adequate exposure for direct visual and bimanual examination. For posterior oral cavity and oropharynx, the standard approach had been the composite resection. This approach requires mandibulectomy and lip-splitting incision, and thus, complications of mandibulectomy can not be avoided. There is no standard approach for parapharyngeal space tumors due to limited exposure, but most authors have agreed that the best approach is the external approach with or without mandibulotomy. Mandibular lingual releasing approach (MLRA) to oral cavity, oropharynx and parapharyngeal space provides excellent visualization for resection of tumors without lip-splitting, mandibulotomy, nor mandibulectomy. We analyzed the outcome and advantage of MLRA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used MLRA to treat 7 patients who had oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancers and one who had parapharyngeal tumor. RESULTS: All tumors could be removed by MLRA. Postoperative complications were wound infection, orocutaneous fistula, and mouth floor wound disruption. But, permanent deficit and complications of lip-splitting, mandibulotomy, or mandibulectomy did not occured. CONCLUSION: The MLRA provides excellent exposure of oral cavity, oropharynx and parapharyngeal space and excellent cosmetic and functional results. It canbe concluded that the MLRA is an excellent approach for tumors of oral cavity, oropharynx and parapharyngeal space.