Reconstruction of glossectomy defects post oncologic resection

Sara Elbaz, Final year medical student, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.Follow
Shadi Awny, Surgical Oncology Unit, Oncology Center Mansoura University (OCMU), Mansoura, Egypt.Follow
Ashraf Shoma, Department of General Surgery, Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt.Follow

Corresponding Author

Elbaz, Sara

Subject Area

Hematology and oncology

Article Type

Review Article

Abstract

The tongue is a muscular organ completely covered by mucous membrane and made up of two portions divided by the V-shaped sulcus terminalis: an anterior 2/3 (oral tongue) and a posterior 1/3 (tongue base). The tongue is essential to normal speech as well as swallowing process, and healthy tongue function is vital within the general quality of life. Tongue cancers are aggressive tumors with poor prognosis, so the early detection markedly raises the possibility of cure with minimal impairment and deformity. Management needs a surgical, medical and radiation oncologist in association with speech therapist, physical rehabilitation, and psychologists. In addition to regular follow-up and good family support are leading to better outcomes. The reconstruction of the tongue post oncologic resection results in better speech and swallowing. In addition, there is a variety of flap options, and no one is superior to another, but it depends on the tongue defect size, patient factors, and team expertise. Therefore, the article focuses on tongue reconstruction by using various flap modalities.

Recommended Citation

Elbaz, Sara; Awny, Shadi; and Shoma, Ashraf (2021) "Reconstruction of glossectomy defects post oncologic resection," Mansoura Medical Journal: Vol. 50 : Iss. 4 , Article 8.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.21608/mjmu.2021.82992.1028