Abstract:
The relevance and importance of the researched issue. Phlegmon of the oral floor is
defined as a bilateral and rapidly progressive inflammatory condition affecting the sublingual,
submandibular, and submental spaces. This condition represents a medical emergency typically
characterized by firm induration and swelling of the floor of the mouth, accompanied by a high
risk of airway compromise and spread of infection along fascial planes into adjacent compartments
and towards the mediastinum [8, 16].
Due to the increased incidence of comorbid conditions (such as immunosuppression and
diabetes mellitus), which are also major risk factors for the oral floor phlegmon, the incidence of
this condition is on the rise. Although the condition is rare, it remains an important disease that
can be life-threatening, primarily due to airway obstruction [1, 2]. In approximately 90% of cases,
the oral floor phlegmon is of odontogenic origin, with teeth 7 and 8 in the mandible accounting
for 70-80% [2, 7].
Respiratory tract protection and early use of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drug
therapy show favorable outcomes. However, surgical intervention involving proper drainage of
purulent collections, debridement of necrotic tissue to the limit of clinically healthy tissues, and
lavage with antiseptic solutions is essential. Despite its benefits, the traditional surgical treatment
approach also comes with some disadvantages: a high level of surgical aggression; rapid wound
sealing with fibrin, obstructing the drainage of purulent discharge; challenging tissue regeneration
with bulky and cosmetically unappealing postoperative scars [4, 9].
Thus, the findings of the specialized literature analysis and our clinical experience advocate
for the opportunity to develop a new concept/protocol for minimally invasive surgical intervention
of buccal floor phlegmon, which would contribute to early, effective, and less traumatic
rehabilitation. In this regard, it is important to select the appropriate interventional strategy, taking
into account the individual characteristics of the patient [12, 13] [....].
