Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 02/17/2009
A successful glossectomy results in complete removal of the cancer, improved ability to swallow food, and restored speech. The quality of the patient's speech is usually very good if at least one-third of the tongue remains and an experienced surgeon...
has performed the repair.
Total glossectomy results in severe disability because the "new tongue" (a prosthesis) is incapable of movement. This lack of mobility creates enormous difficulty in eating and talking.
Advertisement
Search
Other Information
A midline glossectomy is a surgical reduction of the size of the base of the tongue (posterior tongue). It sometimes is used to treat sleep apnea.
Other Information
ENT surgeons diagnose and treat conditions of the ears, nose, throat, head and neck, and undertake some cosmetic procedures.
-Dr David Luff
Find a Qualified Specialist
Looking for a specialist?
Please enter your zip code.