Wed Jan 07 00:00:00 UTC 2026: # Advanced Tongue Cancer Treated Successfully in Chennai, Highlighting Need for Early Detection and Tobacco Cessation
The Story:
Doctors at MGM Cancer Institute in Chennai successfully treated a 41-year-old man with advanced tongue cancer (squamous cell carcinoma) using a combination of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, resection surgery, and free flap reconstruction. The patient, a long-time smoker and tobacco chewer, had a 5 x 3 cm tumor that had spread significantly. The surgery restored his ability to eat and speak, although his sense of taste will be affected.
Key Points:
* The patient, 41 years old, presented with stage four tongue cancer.
* He had been smoking and chewing tobacco since the age of 20.
* The tumor measured approximately 5 x 3 cm and had spread extensively.
* Treatment involved chemotherapy to reduce the tumor size by 40%-50%, followed by surgery to remove the tongue, floor of the mouth, and hyoid bone.
* Free flap reconstruction was used to rebuild the tongue and mouth.
* Doctors emphasized the importance of tobacco cessation and early treatment.
Key Takeaways:
* Advanced tongue cancer can be treated effectively with a multidisciplinary approach, even in severe cases.
* Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for tongue cancer.
* Early detection and treatment are crucial for better outcomes.
* Free flap reconstruction is an advanced technique that can restore function and quality of life for cancer patients.
First Piper 