Glossectomy

Glossectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the partial or total removal of the tongue. This procedure is often performed as a treatment for tongue cancer or other oral cancers.

Indications

Glossectomy is primarily indicated for the treatment of tongue cancer. It may also be performed for other oral cancers, severe tongue trauma, or in rare cases, severe tongue-tie.

Procedure

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the mouth and removes part or all of the tongue, depending on the extent of the cancer. In some cases, the lymph nodes in the neck may also be removed if the cancer has spread.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, glossectomy carries risks including infection, bleeding, and complications from anesthesia. Specific to this procedure, there may be difficulty with speech, swallowing, and taste following the surgery.

Postoperative Care

After the procedure, the patient may require speech therapy to regain speech and swallowing function. Nutritional support may also be necessary, as eating normally may be difficult.

See Also

• Tongue cancer
• Oral cancer
• General anesthesia
• Speech therapy

Glossectomy Resources
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