Functional outcomes in children with reduction glossectomy for vascular malformations - "less is more!"

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Vascular Malformations
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Macroglossia in children can result from tongue vascular malformations (VMs).
• Reduction glossectomy is a surgical option when sclerotherapy is ineffective or not feasible.
• Evaluating surgical outcomes is crucial for managing pediatric VM-induced macroglossia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the functional and surgical outcomes of reduction glossectomy for pediatric macroglossia secondary to VMs.
• To determine the efficacy of surgical intervention in improving quality of life.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective evaluation of seven children treated for VM-induced macroglossia between 2013 and 2018.
• Inclusion of functional assessments (speech, taste, swallowing) at least two years post-surgery.
• Surgical techniques included median and lateral glossectomy.

Main Results:

• Speech intelligibility was comprehensible in three children and occasionally unintelligible in four.
• All patients maintained normal taste and swallowing functions post-surgery.
• Minimal residual lesions were observed in six patients, with one requiring further management.

Conclusions:

• Reduction glossectomy yields acceptable cosmetic and functional outcomes for pediatric macroglossia due to VMs.
• The procedure does not impose gastronomic restrictions and preserves essential functions.
• Surgical intervention plays a significant role in managing complex pediatric tongue malformations.