Total glossectomy for advanced carcinoma of the base of the tongue

The treatment of patients with advanced carcinoma of the base of the tongue is difficult. Selected patients with this lesion can be aided by an aggressive therapeutic approach to this problem. Combined therapy consisting of irradiation therapy followed by composite resection of the entire tongue and larynx and neck dissection may offer the best opportunity for cure or palliation in these patients. Reconstruction of the defect with a non‐delayed full forehead flap has provided a very satisfactory floor of the mouth. The postoperative functional abilities of these patients have clearly been compatible with useful life.