Flap selections in the reconstruction of tongue squamous cell carcinoma following glossectomy

Abstract

Tongue SCC comprises 20% of all SCC involving oral cavity which increase in incidence worldwide. Glossectomy either sub-total or total is the mainstay of treatment for tongue SCC to achieve cure with optimum functionality. Various surgical might be used based on tumor burden. Reconstruction method for defect following the surgeries has always been challenging with variable options of flaps and variable outcomes. These case series reporting 4 cases of tongue SCC treated with glossectomy, neck dissection and standard therapy. Approaches used were lateral mandibulotomy, lower cheek and visor flap approach. Each treated with different reconstructive technique following the surgery. Case 1 was reconstructed with pectoralis major flap, case 2 with latissimus dorsi flap, case 3 with sternocleidomastoid flap and case 4 with supraclavicular island flap. Despite the well-known benefits and disadvantages for every above-mentioned method for defect closure, all these flaps in our reports gave satisfactory result in tongue mobility including articulation and swallowing, as well as the local aspect such as flap survival, wound healing, and no involvement of significant post-operative complication. In conclusion, anatomical, functional and aesthetical outcomes after glossectomy using different type of flaps are generally comparable.