Autoreconstruction of the tongue in case of extensive verrucous carcinoma

Abstract

Tongue reconstruction can be simple to complex depending on the size of the defect. Reconstruction of medium-to-large size defect is technically demanding to achieve better esthetic and functional outcome. There are various options in the reconstruction of tongue defect when it comes to the type of flap. Any type of flap has its own advantages and disadvantages. Local flaps seem to be the best option, as it avoids secondary donor site morbidity and has similar tissue characteristics as native tissue, therefore provides better esthetic and functional results. This case report illustrates a case of tongue reconstruction that was performed with the help of tongue base island flap after wide local excision of verrucous carcinoma, which provided us with excellent results.