Keyhole tongue reduction

Evan H. Somers, Thomas D. Samson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Macroglossia, although relatively uncommon, can lead to significant morbidity such as compensatory mandibular overgrowth, compromised oral competence, and chronic exposure and breakdown of tongue mucosa. Surgical debulking of the enlarged tongue is reserved for patients with significant morbidity. The methods of surgical correction of macroglossia are many, none of which are superior. Early techniques focused on reducing the tongue through nonspecific debulking, but more current techniques focus on preserving lingual mobility, maintaining adequate length and avoiding injury to the neurovascular bundles. The keyhole technique is a specific technique that incorporates both an anterior wedge resection and a central tongue reduction. This allows for protection of the lateral neurovascular bundles while performing significant debulking of the tongue. Postoperative results have demonstrated good mobility and positive effects on speech.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)127-130
Number of pages4
JournalOperative Techniques in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Volume26
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2015

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Keyhole tongue reduction'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this