Postoperative Complications of Tongue Base Surgery

Common Early Postoperative Complications

The European Respiratory Society notes that patients undergoing surgical removal of a growth at the base of the tongue should expect temporary swallowing difficulties and pain with swallowing as the most common side effects, with most swallowing abnormalities resolving within 4 weeks, though 30% may experience persistent issues for 6-19 months postoperatively 1, 2, 3
Dysphagia occurs commonly but typically resolves within 4 weeks, representing the most frequent functional complaint after tongue base surgery, according to the European Respiratory Society 3
Odynophagia is expected in the immediate postoperative period, as reported by the European Respiratory Journal 4, 2
Self-limited aspiration may occur during the immediate postoperative period but generally resolves without long-term sequelae, as noted by the European Respiratory Journal 3
Temporary articulation distortions and speech impairment have been reported but are not permanent, according to the European Respiratory Journal 4, 3

Significant postoperative pharyngolaryngeal edema and increased secretions can compromise the airway, particularly in the first 24-48 hours, as reported by the European Respiratory Journal 2
Hypersalivation may require pharmacologic management with glycopyrrolate, as noted by the European Respiratory Journal 2
Some extensive procedures may require temporary tracheotomy due to risk of airway compromise, according to the European Respiratory Journal 5, 2

Submental abscess has been reported, particularly when non-absorbable sutures are used, as noted by the European Respiratory Journal 1
Floor of mouth sialadenitis can develop, according to the European Respiratory Journal 4
Development of floor of mouth cyst has been reported, as noted by the European Respiratory Journal 4

No persistent voice changes or dysphagia were reported in patients undergoing uncomplicated tongue base procedures, according to the European Respiratory Journal 3
Permanent disabilities are rare when the procedure is performed correctly, with most complications being temporary, as reported by the European Respiratory Journal 3

Monitor for airway compromise from combined edema and excessive secretions in the immediate postoperative period, as recommended by the European Respiratory Journal 2
Assess for signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain, and swelling, in the immediate postoperative period, as noted by the European Respiratory Journal 2
Evaluate swallowing function before oral intake, as recommended by the European Respiratory Journal 3
Swallowing abnormalities may persist for 6-19 months but typically allow resumption of normal diet, according to the European Respiratory Journal 1, 2
Speech and articulation typically normalize over time, as reported by the European Respiratory Journal 4, 3