Facing a tongue cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, especially when it affects critical functions like speech and swallowing. At Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital in Chennai, our expertise lies not only in removing the cancer but in meticulously reconstructing what was lost. A recent case highlights our commitment to this mission.
A 71-year-old woman came to us with a painful swelling and bleeding on the left side of her tongue. A biopsy confirmed it was Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the tongue, a rare salivary gland cancer. She needed life-saving surgery that would involve removing a significant part of the posterior third of her tongue. The key challenge: performing this resection while preserving her future quality of life.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Complex Oral Cancer
Led by Dr. SM Balaji, a renowned oral cancer surgeon in Chennai, our specialized team—including ENT, GI, and microvascular surgeons—developed a precise plan. We understand that the best outcomes for oral cancer treatment come from a collaborative approach.
The procedure involved:
Airway and Nutrition Management:Â A tracheostomy and PEG feeding tube were placed for safety and recovery.
Precision Tumor Resection: We performed a mandibulotomy to access and completely remove the tumor from the posterior tongue.
Ensuring Complete Removal: Intraoperative frozen section biopsies confirmed negative margins, meaning all cancer cells were eliminated.
Microvascular Reconstruction: Rebuilding the Tongue with Precision
The cornerstone of restoring function was the radial forearm free flap reconstruction. This advanced microvascular surgery involves transplanting a thin, pliable piece of tissue from the patient’s own forearm to rebuild the tongue.
Our surgical team meticulously connected the flap’s blood vessels to those in the neck using a high-powered microscope. A successful pinprick test confirmed excellent blood flow, ensuring the survival of this newly constructed part of the tongue.
Excellence in Functional and Aesthetic Outcomes
The goal of tongue reconstruction surgery is to help patients regain speech and swallowing. This case achieved outstanding functional and aesthetic results. While the journey involves healing and speech therapy, the successful surgery provides the foundation for the patient to regain clear speech and the ability to swallow effectively.
Your Trusted Center for Oral Cancer Care in India
For over two decades, Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital has been a leading center for advanced oral cancer surgery and craniofacial reconstruction. We combine surgical excellence with a deep compassion for our patients’ well-being.
If you are searching for:
Tongue cancer surgery
Radial forearm flap reconstruction
Oral cancer treatment in Chennai
Microvascular surgery in India
Restoring speech after tongue cancer
We are here to help. Contact us to learn more about our life-changing surgical solutions.
