Left–right differences in oral function and QOL of patients who underwent tongue resection

Abstract In this study, we investigated the effect of left–right differences on oral function and QOL in patients with TC underwent tongue resection. Forty patients with TC underwent resection smaller than hemiglossectomy were divided into left (LG) and right (RG) tongue groups. The evaluation items were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months posttreatment. Maximum tongue pressure and lip-closure force were measured for oral function evaluation. Peak expiratory flow was used to evaluate the respiratory function. The Functional Oral Intake Scale was used to evaluate the feeding functions. The QOL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QOL Questionnaires: QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N35. No significant differences in oral, respiratory, or feeding function between LG and RG were observed at all evaluation periods. However at 3 months, LG had a significantly higher QOL score than RG for swallowing and trouble with social eating. At 6 months, the LG had a significantly higher QOL than RG for global health status and physical function. The left–right differences in tongue function did not lead to functional impairment but significantly affected the QOL. This indicates the importance of considering these differences in postoperative care to address QOL concerns effectively.