Tongue flap reconstruction in cancer of the oral cavity.

The mobility, size, and composition of the tongue make it ideal for oral cavity reconstruction following resection for carcinoma. The tongue flap provides a ready means of primary closure without increased morbidity, especially in patients who have had extensive therapeutic or preoperative irradiation treatment. The position of the tongue adjacent to the surgical defect and its excellent blood supply allow its nondelayed utilization. In most cases, use of the tongue flap precludes the necessity for multiple-staged reconstruction with regional pedicle flaps, with an improvement in functional results in terms of immediate healing, swallowing, and articulation over previous methods of reconstruction.