Classification of GLOSSECTOMIES: Proposal for tongue cancer resections

Surgery of tongue tumors includes different procedures ranging from mucosal resection to complex combined resection. Numerous terms have been used to describe such procedures, but there is no consensus between the terminology and the extent of resection.

We searched the medical literature and found a lack of published information. We undertook to describe a new classification of surgical procedures for tongue tumor resection. We based it upon the surgical anatomy of the tongue and the spread of the cancer. We posited that there were five major types of glossectomy embracing all the methods of tongue cancer resection. This classification was reviewed and endorsed by an international team of experts.

We propose a more precise classification than that currently in practice, thereby bringing clarity and consistency to the terminology, facilitating shared communication between surgeons, comparison between published research, and ultimately improving surgical practice and patient care.