Functional outcomes after glossectomies: Pilot study on use of a thrombin-fibrinogen biosponge (TachoSil).

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of a thrombin-fibrinogen biosponge (TachoSil) has any advantage in tongue healing. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective study with 30 patients treated with partial glossectomy (below half a tongue) was designed. We compared the results from a group using the biosponge (n =15 patients) and a control group (n = 15). Variables taken into consideration were bolus clearance, frenulum flexibility, and oral transit time. With these parameters, we formulated a "tongue remaining functional" (TRF) scale to assess tongue functionality after the surgery. We also evaluated long-term quality of life by using the Functional Intraoral Glasgow Scale (FIGS). RESULTS: In this study, TRF score, bolus clearance, oral transit time, and frenulum flexibility were significantly improved in the biosponge group. However, there were no differences between the 2 groups in the FIGS scores. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the biosponge in this pilot study showed positive long-term effects in lingual healing and functionality after partial glossectomies.