1. What are the early symptoms of tongue cancer?
Early symptoms include persistent tongue ulcers, lumps on the tongue border or dorsum, and white or red patches. Tongue pain, unclear speech, and swallowing discomfort may occur.
2. What causes tongue cancer?
Risk factors include long-term smoking and drinking, betel nut chewing, poor oral hygiene, and chronic irritation from sharp tooth cusps or poorly fitted restorations. HPVHPV infection is associated with tongue base cancer.
3. What types of tongue cancer surgery are available?
Local excision, hemiglossectomy, or total glossectomy is selected according to tumor size and location. Adequate safe margins are required. Sentinel lymph nodes assess lymph node metastasis,
4. What is minimally invasive treatment for tongue cancer?
Early tongue cancer may be treated with transoral laser microsurgery or robotic surgery, precisely removing tumors through the mouth. Low-temperature plasma ablation causes less bleeding and allows rapid wound recovery.
5. Why is flap reconstruction needed after tongue cancer surgery?
Removal of half or more of the tongue creates a substantial defect affecting speech, swallowing, and oral function. Forearm or anterolateral thigh flaps can repair the defect and restore shape.
6. How is speech and swallowing training performed after tongue cancer surgery?
Partial glossectomy may impair speech and swallowing, requiring systematic training. Speech therapy includes articulation exercises and oral muscle coordination training.
7. What follow-up is needed after tongue cancer treatment?
Regular oral examination and neck palpation are needed after treatment, every 1-3 months during the first two years. Regular head and neck CT or MRI monitors recurrence. Maintain oral hygiene and stop smoking, drinking, and chewing betel nuts.
