INTRODUCTION: Tongue squamous cell carcinoma SCC represents the majority of oral cancer with a high incidence of lymphatic metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Lingual lymph node groups are not well-documented entities in anatomical and surgical references or management protocols. Compartmental tongue resection aims to remove all that lingual lymph node groups (and other pathways of spread in the floor of the mouth and suprahyoid muscles) to decrease the possibilities of locoregional recurrence. The tongue is a very important functional organ. Restoring tongue function after compartmental resection is vital to avoid permanent upper GIT and airway bypass and to restore the patient's quality of life status. Pectoralis Major Myocutaneous Flap PMMF is still workhorse flap for head and neck reconstruction in the era of free flaps. It provides the necessary bulk for total glossectomy defects. Patients and methods: 6 patients underwent subtotal and near-total glossectomy via compartmental tongue surgery approach. The surgical defect was reconstructed by PMMF. The functional outcome was measured using the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QOL). Oncologic and functional outcome evaluated during the follow up period which was between 4-40 months. Results: 83% (5 patients) had good functional outcomes regarding speech intellectuality and swallowing abilities without aspiration. 1 patient with pectoralis major muscle flap had a poor functional outcome due to the reduced bulk of the flap. 50% (3 patients) survived (2 disease-free) and 50% died from other causes than their tongue SCC. 33% (2 patients) had recurrent disease. Conclusion: Good functional rehabilitation can be achieved after subtotal glossectomy via Pectoralis Major Myocutaneous flap which provides the necessary bulk of tissues.
CLO22-034 Table
