Open Access Atlas of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Operative Surgery Total Glossectomy for Tongue Cancer

Total glossectomy has significant morbidity in terms of intelligible speech, mastication, swallowing, and in some cases, aspiration. Consequently many centers treat advanced tongue cancer with chemoradiation therapy and reserve surgery for treatment failures. Total glossectomy is however a very good primary treatment for carefully selected patients, especially in centers that do not offer chemoradiation. Key surgical decisions relate to whether the patient will cope with a measure of aspiration, and whether laryngectomy is required.