O-TO-T Advancement Reconstruction for Partial Glossectomy Defects: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Lateral tongue defects often result from early-stage cancer resection.
• Reconstruction aims to restore function and minimize morbidity.
• Current techniques include primary closure and microvascular reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the O-T advancement reconstruction (OTAR) technique for lateral tongue defects.
• To evaluate the indications, outcomes, and limitations of OTAR.
• To assess functional results including swallowing and speech.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 11 patients undergoing OTAR for lateral tongue defects post-cancer removal.
• Data collected included demographics, cancer staging, defect size, and complications.
• Functional outcomes assessed using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and Dysphagia Outcome Severity Scale (DOSS) pre- and post-operatively, with telephone follow-up.

Main Results:

• Mean defect size was 4.7 cm x 3.4 cm.
• Postoperative FOIS and DOSS scores showed a decline from preoperative values (6.9/6.8 to 4.8/5.0), but improved at follow-up (6.7/6.5).
• Nine patients required nasogastric tubes initially; complications included 2 minor dehiscences. Functional issues like tongue-biting and dysarthria were reported by some patients.

Conclusions:

• OTAR is a viable alternative for reconstructing lateral tongue defects, potentially superior to primary closure or complex microvascular procedures.
• The technique may preserve swallowing and speech function, possibly due to sparing of the lateral sulcus.
• Further research is warranted to optimize OTAR for functional outcomes.