Reverse Marginal Mandibulectomy for Submandibular Gland Tumor

Abstract

Segmental resection of mandible was a preferred approach in oral cancers with proximity to the bone, for adequate resection margins and fear of local recurrence as it was thought to spread via the periosteal lymphatics. However, with a better understanding of oral cancer spread, mandibular preserving strategies are being practiced in which only a portion of the mandible is excised with preservation of bony continuity. This improves overall functional and cosmetic outcomes. Conservative mandibular resections including the classical rim, reverse, sagittal, and oblique types have been described in contemporary literature. We report reverse marginal mandibulectomy in a case of submandibular gland tumor and review the clinical and pathological basis of the selection of cases suitable for mandibular preservation strategy.