Comparative outcomes of central versus lateral lip-split access in head and neck reconstructive surgery following tumor resection.

Optimal incision design for lip-split mandibulotomy in advanced head and neck tumor resection remains controversial, as postoperative functional impairment and aesthetic morbidity continue to affect long-term quality-of-life despite adequate oncologic clearance. Therefore, it is of interest to compare lateral and central access via the lips of patients undergoing multi-tumoral resection as well as microvascular reconstruct. The lateral lip-split approach showed less injuries and better postoperative oral performance, whereas central lip-split access was slightly shorter exposure times to the operation. Both options are safe but lateral lip-split access has superior aesthetic and functional results. The choice of an incision's design must consider oncologic access as well as the long-term quality of life outcomes.