Advanced Tongue Cancer Defeated: Reconstruction Success

A 41-year-old man diagnosed with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue has undergone a successful, multi-disciplinary treatment protocol. Initially deemed inoperable by several institutions, the patient's condition required a combination of therapies. His treatment commenced with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which effectively reduced the tumor by an estimated 40-50%, controlling its spread and alleviating severe pain. This crucial step paved the way for subsequent surgical intervention.

The surgical team then performed a radical resection, removing the extensive tumor along with portions of the tongue, floor of the mouth, and the hyoid bone. To restore form and function, doctors employed free flap reconstruction, a sophisticated technique utilizing healthy tissue from elsewhere in the body. This was complemented by radiation therapy, further ensuring the eradication of any remaining cancer cells and aiding recovery.