Indications, reconstructive techniques, and results for total glossectomy

BACKGROUND: The best treatment for advanced tongue tumors remains controversial. Total glossectomy with laryngeal preservation is considered a feasible option, despite its morbidity. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 12 total glossectomies with laryngeal preservation was performed in order to assess the available reconstruction techniques and analyze survival and functional outcomes. RESULTS: One-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates were 58.3% and 33.3%, respectively, both dropping to 25% after 3 years. Permanent gastrostomy was necessary in 10 patients, although videofluoroscopy revealed adequate tolerance to liquids. Speech intelligibility was satisfactory in 50% of the patients and severely impaired in the remaining 50%. CONCLUSION: Laryngeal preservation in the context of advanced tumors of the tongue without supraglottic invasion carried similar oncologic results to total glossectomy with laryngectomy, but offers a better phonatory function. However, it is usually associated with a higher gastrostomy dependency ratio. A scrupulous selection of candidates is mandatory.