The importance of sensory feedback from the oral cavity is evaluated in the context of functional rehabilitation following ablative surgery using three techniques that restore or preserve sensation. Nerve grafts to restore the continuity of sensory nerves interrupted during ablative surgery, as well as the role of sensate flaps and the protection of palatal sensation following soft palate resection or total glossectomy, are discussed.
(Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1995;121:607-612)