Introduction: Partial glossectomy and reconstruction strategy for malignant tongue tumors influences speech and swallowing. Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate long-term functional outcomes after partial glossectomy for pT2 mobile tongue carcinomas with a maximum dimension between 2 and 3cm. Different reconstruction strategies (with or without pedicled flap) were compared. Methods: Twenty-two patients with at least 12 months followup were included. Clinician-based and self-reported instruments were used to analyze tongue motility, speech intelligibility and articulation, swallowing, and quality of life. Results: Patients with a higher tongue motility had better articulation and lower dysphagia. Avoiding pedicled flap reconstruction seemed to guarantee lower impairment of speech and swallowing. Worse functional outcomes induced a lower quality of life. Conclusion: Partial glossectomy results in tongue motility impairment and consequently alterations of oral functions. Since the type of reconstruction impacts long-term outcomes, it should be adequately planned before surgery.
Long-term functional outcomes and quality of life after partial glossectomy for T2 squamous cell carcinomas
Riva, Giuseppe;Sapino, Silvia;Ravera, Mattia;Elia, Giulia;Pecorari, Giancarlo
2022-01-01
Abstract
Introduction: Partial glossectomy and reconstruction strategy for malignant tongue tumors influences speech and swallowing. Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate long-term functional outcomes after partial glossectomy for pT2 mobile tongue carcinomas with a maximum dimension between 2 and 3cm. Different reconstruction strategies (with or without pedicled flap) were compared. Methods: Twenty-two patients with at least 12 months followup were included. Clinician-based and self-reported instruments were used to analyze tongue motility, speech intelligibility and articulation, swallowing, and quality of life. Results: Patients with a higher tongue motility had better articulation and lower dysphagia. Avoiding pedicled flap reconstruction seemed to guarantee lower impairment of speech and swallowing. Worse functional outcomes induced a lower quality of life. Conclusion: Partial glossectomy results in tongue motility impairment and consequently alterations of oral functions. Since the type of reconstruction impacts long-term outcomes, it should be adequately planned before surgery.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.