Oral cancer is a serious health concern affecting thousands of individuals in India each year. Known as the cancer of the mouth, oral cancer typically affects the buccal mucosa or tongue. Oral cancer in India predominantly affects men. Timely diagnosis and specialized treatment, such as tongue cancer surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, are essential to manage and prevent its spread.
At Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital, a leading institution in India for head and neck oncology, advanced oral cancer treatments and reconstructive surgery techniques are providing hope and improved quality of life for patients. Here, we share the story of an elderly patient successfully treated for tongue cancer, highlighting the expertise of Dr. S.M. Balaji and his dedicated team.
Understanding Tongue Cancer
Tongue cancer is a type of oral cancer that occurs when abnormal cells in the tongue multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. It can spread to nearby tissues and, if left untreated, can metastasize to other parts of the body. It develops on the surface of the tongue, often going unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage.
Risk factors for Tongue Cancer
Various factors can increase the risk of developing tongue cancer.
- Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, along with chewing tobacco products such as betel nuts, quid, zarda, etc., significantly increases the risk. This has also led to increased premalignant cases.
- Alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking, especially when combined with tobacco use, is a major risk factor.
- Poor oral hygiene and constant trauma—sharp teeth, ill-fitting dentures, and neglecting regular dental check-ups and proper oral care—can contribute to the development of oral cancer.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: An increased risk of oral cancers, including tongue cancer, is associated with certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV16. Other viruses like the Herpes simplex virus, HIV, and Epstein-Barr virus can be a contributing factor.
- Nutritional deficiency: Deficiency of iron, vitamin B12, and selenium can cause cancer.
- If left undiagnosed and untreated, premalignant conditions such as leukoplakia and erthyloplakia can develop into cancer.
Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Tongue Cancer
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Be aware of these common symptoms:
- Persistent sores or ulcers: sores that don’t heal within two weeks.
- Unusual patches can appear as red and white patches on the tongue or under the tongue.
- The patient may experience difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking, as well as pain or discomfort when eating, drinking, or talking. Not being able to eat spicy food can be a sign.
- Numbness or tingling: unusual sensations in the mouth or tongue.
- Lump of thickening of soft tissues of the mouth.
- Chronic ear pain or persistent cough, even after treatment, can be a warning sign.
- The patient may have trouble moving their jaw or opening their mouth, experience jaw swelling, or have a hoarse voice.
A Success Story from Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital
When this elderly patient arrived at Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital, he presented with tongue cancer that had spread to the left border of his tongue and the floor of his mouth. Dr. S.M. Balaji, the hospital’s chief consultant, led a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to assess the extent of the cancer and determine an effective treatment plan.
The evaluation involved a variety of tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and biopsy. Based on the findings, Dr. Balaji and his team decided the best treatment option would be to perform a tongue cancer surgery and reconstruct the tongue with a free forearm flap.
Admission and Testing at Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital
Our hospital has been at the forefront of the treatment of oral cancer patients. We have been reconstructing patients’ post-cancer treatment for over 30 years now. Scores of such patients have been enabled to lead normal lives after cancer surgery.
Leading Center for Oral Cancer Reconstruction Surgery
We are a tertiary referral center for many hospitals from across the globe. This forms an integral part of our services to humanity. Many organizations have recognized our commitment to the rehabilitation of oral cancer patients.
Our medical and paramedical teams are among the best in the world. Our medical professionals regularly participate in workshops and programs to maintain their skills at the forefront. This has enabled us to provide world-class services on a consistent basis.
Treatment Options for Oral Cancer
The location, extent, and type of the cancer determine the treatment. Various factors, such as the age of the patient, the type of cancer, and the stage of oral cancer, should be considered before proceeding with the treatment.
Treatment options can involve things like surgery, radiation therapy (destruction of cancer cells), chemotherapy (killing cancer cells using chemicals), or a combination of these. We decided to proceed with surgery for this patient, considering his age and medical history.
Tongue Cancer Surgery and Neck Dissection
In this case, the procedure involved a left partial glossectomy, which entailed removing the left half of the patient’s tongue. A left neck dissection to remove lymph nodes, which is a critical step in cases where tongue cancer has the potential to spread.
The pathology lab received lymph node samples for biopsy during the surgery. The “frozen section” biopsy confirmed that the cancer had not spread to the left lymph nodes, allowing the team to proceed with reconstruction.
Reconstruction with Forearm Radial Flap
A significant component of this successful tongue cancer surgery in India was the reconstruction of the resected portion of the patient’s tongue. For this, Dr. Balaji’s team used a technique involving a “free forearm radial flap.” The team harvested tissue from the patient’s forearm, ensuring an adequate supply and compatibility for successful reconstruction.
The team meticulously ensured the new tongue tissue had proper blood flow before closing the incisions, an essential aspect of reconstructive surgery in India that supports healing and function. The team meticulously ensured the new tongue tissue had proper blood flow before closing the incisions, an essential aspect of reconstructive surgery that supports healing and function.
Post-operative care and outcomes
Specialized postoperative care, including antibiotics and pain management, was provided to support the patient’s recovery following the surgery. The success of this complex tongue cancer surgery and reconstruction is a testament to the skill and dedication of Dr. S.M. Balaji and his team.
Why Choose Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital for Tongue Cancer Surgery in India?
Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital, located in India, is renowned for its expertise in head and neck oncology, including complex cases of tongue cancer. The hospital commits to delivering personalized and effective treatment plans with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centric approach. Dr. S.M. Balaji and his team bring decades of experience in treating tongue cancer with successful outcomes, even in challenging cases.
