Survival, function, and quality of life after total glossectomy

Advanced tongue cancer is associated with poor survival despite aggressive therapy. In an attempt at cure, many patients undergo total glossectomy, which significantly affects function and quality of life (QOL). This study was designed to determine the survival rate and QOL of patients who had undergone total glossectomy. A total of 54 patients underwent total glossectomy, with or without total laryngectomy, for advanced tongue cancer from 1970 to 1996. Patient outcomes were assessed for the following: 1. disease-free survival, 2. function, utilizing the Performance Status Scale (PSS), and 3. QOL, using two general cancer questionnaires (FACT-G and EORTC QLQ-C30) and a series of questions specific for head and neck cancer patients. Corrected actuarial survival was 51% and 41% at 3 and 5 years, respectively. Functional assessment using the PSS demonstrated significant deficits in speech and deglutition. QOL questionnaires revealed problems with eating, speaking, socializing, and shoulder function. However, the overall responses demonstrated that these patients have adjusted to their deficits and have a good QOL. It was concluded that total glossectomy, with or without total laryngectomy, can result in meaningful survival and an adequate QOL can be achieved in selected patients.