Submandibular gland transfer into the temporal fossa in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma: A viable option to prevent radiation-induced xerostomia

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is associated with an important mortality and morbidity related to surgery and radiotherapy. In particular, radiation-induced xerostomia has a major impact on patient’s quality of life. Although intensity-modulated radiation therapy allowed mean dose reduction to the spared submandibular gland (SMG) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, xerostomia is still an important sequela for patients treated for an OSCC. SMG surgical transfer into anatomical subsite receiving very low radiation doses is a promising approach to prevent xerostomia. Based on a literature review and data from our institutional cohort, we analyzed the oncological safety of SMG preservation. Then, we discussed the feasibility and relevance of SMG transfer into the temporal fossa, in order to prevent radiation-induced xerostomia in patients with OSCC.