What are the sequelae of tongue cancer? Will tongue cancer recur?

Among the sequelae of tongue cancer, cancer cell recurrence and metastasis are the most serious, and the peak period of recurrence is six months to one year after surgery. Surgery that requires tongue removal or surgical failure can affect tongue function. Neck lymph node dissection can leave functional disorders such as shoulder pain and inability to lift.

1. Tumor Recurrence and Metastasis

The most serious sequelae after tongue cancer surgery are cancer cell recurrence and metastasis. The cure rate of tongue cancer is less than 100%, and the clinical five-year survival rate is about 60% to 70%. The recurrence rate of tongue cancer is high, and it may recur or metastasize about half a year or one year after surgery.

2. Other sequelae

Tongue cancer surgery requires the removal of part of the tongue, which may affect tongue function and affect speech and swallowing. If tongue cancer surgery fails, it may cause complications such as infection and nerve damage, affecting subsequent functions. After the neck lymph nodes are cleared, functional disorders such as shoulder pain and inability to lift may remain.