Suprahyoid pharyngotomy for tongue base tumors reincarnated

Abstract

The surgical approach to the base of tongue and posterior wall of oropharynx and hypopharynx is controversial. Here we present our experience with ten such patients operated through suprahyoid pharyngotomy approach with the aim to study advantages and disadvantages of this approach along with review of literature. Ten patients with benign tumor and T1, T2 carcinoma of tongue base underwent surgical excision via suprahyoid pharyngotomy approach. Fifty percent of these tumors were histologically proven to be myoepithelioma followed by schwannoma. Dysphagia was the most worrisome problem post-operatively. Suprahyoid pharyngotomy is an old and time-tested approach. It provides an excellent and easier approach for benign tumor & early (T1, T2) cancer of the base of tongue for carefully selected patients.