Swallowing function after hemiglossectomy in patients with tongue cancer

Abstract

Swallowing function after hemiglossectomy in two patients with tongue cancer was evaluated using videofluorography and manometry. All patients underwent tracheotomy, laryngeal suspension, radical neck dissection and hemiglossectomy with pectorial major myocutaneous flap reconstruction. Mild or moderate aspiration of contrast medium was observed in all two cases. Retention of contrast medium in valeculla and piriform sinuses was also observed. However, almost all contrast medium was transported into esophagus smoothly. Elevation of larynx and opening of esophageal inlet were almost normal. Dec- reased swallowing pressures in the mesopharynx were observed in all patients. However, pressures in the hypopharynx and the cervical esophagus were almost normal in all patients.