MGM Cancer Institute Saves 41-Year-Old Man from Advanced, Inoperable Tongue Cancer

Chennai, January 6, 2026: Doctors at MGM Cancer Institute have successfully treated a 41-year-old man diagnosed with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue—an aggressive oral cancer that had earlier been deemed inoperable at multiple hospitals due to its extensive spread.

(L to R) Dr. Sivaram Ganesamoni, HOD and Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology; 41 year old Patient; Dr. Manikandan Venkatasubramaniyan, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology; Dr. M.A. Raja, Director and Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology

The tumour, measuring approximately 5 × 3 cm with deep vertical extension, had involved the entire anterior portion of the tongue, the floor of the mouth, and extended up to the hyoid bone, a critical structure in the upper neck that supports tongue movement. The patient, a known smoker, initially presented with a persistent ulcer and abnormal growth on the tongue.

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A biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma, and further evaluation using a whole-body PET scan revealed the depth and extent of tumour spread. Given the advanced stage of the disease and the patient’s relatively young age, a multidisciplinary tumour board at MGM Cancer Institute recommended a multimodal treatment approach.

The patient was first treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy to shrink the tumour and improve surgical feasibility. After two cycles of chemotherapy, follow-up PET scans showed a good partial response, allowing doctors to proceed with definitive surgical management.

The patient then underwent a highly complex composite resection surgery, which included an anterior total glossectomy (complete removal of the front portion of the tongue), resection of the entire floor of the mouth, segmental mandibulectomy to remove the affected portion of the jaw bone, and removal of the hyoid bone. Following complete tumour clearance, the surgical team performed advanced free flap reconstruction using a Free Anterolateral Thigh (ALT) flap, transplanting healthy tissue from the patient’s left thigh to reconstruct the tongue and oral cavity, thereby restoring form and function.

Postoperatively, the patient received radiation therapy to eradicate any residual microscopic cancer cells and ensure long-term disease control. He has since recovered well, is disease-free, and has returned to his routine life.

The complex treatment was carried out by a multidisciplinary team comprising Dr. M.A. Raja, Director and Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology; Dr. Sivaram Ganesamoni, HOD and Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology; Dr. Manikandan Venkatasubramaniyan, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology; and Dr. A. Siva Kumar, Plastic Surgeon.

Commenting on the case, Dr. M.A. Raja said, “Despite the advanced nature of the cancer and its deep extension, the patient responded well to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which played a crucial role in enabling successful surgery and improving outcomes.”

Dr. Sivaram Ganesamoni added, “This case exemplifies the power of coordinated, multimodality cancer care. What initially appeared to be an impossible scenario was addressed through collective expertise and precise execution.”

Explaining the surgical complexity, Dr. Manikandan Venkatasubramaniyan noted, “Extensive tumour removal followed by advanced reconstruction was essential to ensure both cancer control and functional recovery. The successful outcome reflects meticulous planning and teamwork.”

This case stands as a testament to MGM Cancer Institute’s expertise in managing complex and advanced head-and-neck cancers through comprehensive, patient-centric care.

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