Comparison of lip function: surgery vs radiotherapy.

This work was undertaken to compare lip function after surgery and after radiotherapy. In all, 37 patients were studied, 19 post-surgery and 18 after radiotherapy. Both physical lip parameters, such as intercommissural distance and soft tissue gape, as well as sensation and functional outcome, were assessed. The cure rates were found to be comparable in both groups. Our study shows functional benefits when radiotherapy is used as opposed to extensive surgery. This is due primarily to the loss of sensation and elasticity which follows surgery.