Development and regeneration of the oral cavity and the pharynx

Abstract

The oral cavity and pharynx are anatomical spaces defined by soft and hard tissue structures. These structures act as an aerodigestive tract, and the shape of these spaces changes during speech, swallowing, and respiration. Surgical resection of tumors in oropharynx causes tissue defects and various problems, such as disturbance of mastication, deglutition, and articulation, leading to a decreased quality of life. Thus, there is a need for a reconstructive or regenerative approach to restore lost tissues and prevent postoperative complications. In oropharynx, the reconstructive approach is a mainstay of treating surgical defects so far, and there are few references in the literature regarding the regenerative approach. The reconstructive approach using free flaps has advantages in immediate covering of tissue defects without xenobiotic rejection. However, there exist problems such as the stretching ability in free flaps due to the difference of tissue characteristics. Thus, the regenerative approach should also be evolving in oropharynx.