Modified mandibular swing procedure for resection of carcinoma of the oropharynx

For most patients, the primary approach to carcinoma of the oropharynx has been with radiotherapy. We describe a modification of a mandibular swing procedure for resection of oropharyngeal lesions. This modification included a mandibulotomy that began in a staircase manner in the midline and extended laterally toward the ramus of the mandible to protect a long, fixed dental bridge. It also included the preservation of the mental nerve by unroofing the mandibular canal. No morbidity was associated with this procedure.