Submandibular approach for excision of a large schwannoma in the base of the tongue

Abstract

A 24-year-old Turkish woman is described, who gradually developed progressive swallowing problems over 6 months due to a tumor in the base of the tongue. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a large well-circumscribed solid mass. Histopathological examination of an incisional biopsy showed a schwannoma. The tumor was completely removed through a submandibular approach. The postoperative course was uneventful and her complaints disappeared. The submandibular approach used gave an excellent exposure of the base of tongue with a less obvious scar than a lip-splitting incision.