Swallowing analysis in hemi-tongue reconstruction using motor-innervated free flaps: A cine-magnetic resonance imaging study

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the outcomes of motor-innervated free flaps in hemi-tongue reconstruction by assessing the tongue mobility through midsagittal images from cine-magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods: In this retrospective study, 47 patients who underwent tongue reconstruction following hemi-glossectomy and 10 control subjects without any surgical history were included. Patients were classified into two groups: the motor and no-motor innervation group. Various spatial parameters related to tongue mobility that were acquired from midsagittal sections were compared during consecutive swallowing phases.

Results: Overall, the motor group showed improved functional swallowing scale compared with the no-motor group. In case of tongue base resection, the motor group showed improved mobility of the tongue base during pharyngeal phase, whereas the no-motor group showed increased laryngeal elevation for compensatory movement.

Conclusion: The tongue reconstruction with motor-innervated free flaps may facilitate swallowing capacity in patients with a hemi-tongue defect combined with tongue base resection.