Transoral endoscopic surgery: new surgical techniques for oropharyngeal cancer

Abstract

Surgery of oropharyngeal cancer has evolved from large, open transcervical and transmandibular approaches to minimally invasive transoral endoscopic techniques. Transoral laser microsurgery and transoral robotic surgery allow complete oncologic resection through the mouth with minimal cosmetic deformity and optimal speech and swallow function. With a significant increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal cancers, there is a growing role for up-front surgery, especially in young, healthy patients with human papillomavirus-associated squamous cell carcinoma. This article explores the development of transoral endoscopic surgery, its role in the multidisciplinary treatment of patients with oropharyngeal cancer, and oncologic and functional outcomes.