Total glossectomy. A technique of reconstruction eliminating laryngectomy.

A series of 15 patients undergoing total glossectomy for advanced carcinoma of the tongue was analyzed with regard to operative management, oral reconstruction, rehabilitation of deglutition and speech, and survival. While patients often underwent elective total laryngectomy to prevent aspiration previously, a method of laryngoplasty has now been devised that permits retention of the larynx with preservation of swallowing and speech. This technique of laryngoplasty may be used for the management of chronic aspiration of any cause.