Ask the Expert: Question about Surgical Techniques

Question: Are there surgical techniques to reduce or minimize the effects on speech, and/or ability to chew and swallow?
Response: Absolutely!
Head and neck reconstructive microsurgery has advanced tremendously in the past decade. Our ability to transplant tissue from other parts of the body to reconstruct head and neck defects continues to improve. For example, tongue reconstruction can be very carefully customized to one’s cancer defect to optimize sensation, mobility, and volume reconstruction, as well as maximizing the native tissue, to optimize speech and swallowing. Optimizing one’s speech and swallowing is the #1 goal of the reconstructive surgeon.

Dr. Kang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) , specializing in the comprehensive management of benign and malignant head and neck tumors. Click the following links to learn more about Dr. Kang and the OSUCCC– James: https://cancer.osu.edu/find-a-doctor/search-physician-directory/stephen-y-kang and https://cancer.osu.edu/.

The Ask the Expert Guest Moderator is not intended to be a substitute for healthcare professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Speak to your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding your health.