When is tongue reconstruction needed?

When is tongue reconstruction needed?

Introduction. Squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue can cause significant tissue and/or bone invasion and that may require reconstructive surgery after surgical excision. Reconstruction can improve patient quality of life and organ function considerably [1].

How successful is tongue reconstruction?

Patients receiving tongue-base replacement had an overall intelligibility score of 98 percent, while those receiving forward (anterior)-tongue replacement had an overall score of 76 percent. Other studies report intelligibility at 78 and 40-50 percent respectively.

Will I be able to talk after tongue surgery?

A major glossectomy is an operation which removes a large part or all of the tongue. After this surgery your speech and swallowing may be severely affected. Generally, the more tongue that is taken out because of the tumour, the harder it will be to swallow and speak clearly.

How long does tongue reconstruction surgery take?

The tissue is taken from another part of the patient’s body, often the forearm, so there is not a risk of rejection. The surgery, which includes removing a portion of the tongue and reconstructing the new tongue, is long and complex, lasting about 10 hours.

How long does it take a free flap to heal?

When your sutures are removed, use an electric razor on and around the free flap or reconstructed area. Don’t take baths or use hot tubs and swimming pools until your incisions are completely healed. This is usually 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery.

What type of doctor does tongue surgery?

For tongue lesions such as changes in color, growths, or texture changes, an oral surgeon or an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist, also known as an ENT specialist) can evaluate the area, perform a biopsy, and follow up or refer for appropriate treatment such as surgery or medication.

What is a Mandibulectomy?

Mandibulectomy is a procedure that is used to eradicate disease that involves the lower jaw or mandible.

How do you eat after tongue reconstruction?

You should be able to tolerate normal diet by 14 days following surgery. During this period of recovery, you should avoid hard and dried foods such as nuts, since these can cause pain and predispose to bleeding.

How many types of free flaps are there?

Four types of free flaps have been used in finger reconstruction from the ipsilateral extremity, including arterialized venous flap (AVF) [13], superficial palmar branch of the radial artery (SPBRA) flap [14], posterior interosseous perforator flap (PIPF) [15], and ulnar artery perforator free (UAPF) flap [16].