segmental mandibulectomy

segmental mandibulectomy

One of two major types of mandibular resection (the other being marginal mandibulectomy). In a segmental resection, the condyle-to-condyle continuity is disrupted by removing all or a portion of the ramus, angle, body and parasymphysis, which is usually performed for tumours with gross involvement of the mandible itself; if the tumour is fixed to and only involving the periostium, a marginal mandibulectomy should be considered. Once the cancer has penetrated the marrow, tumour cells can spread to the neurovascular bundle. In the case of marrow spread, the procedure should include margins of > 2 cm beyond the visible extent of bony involvement.