Partial glossectomy with free flap query

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Dear all,
I wondered if anyone that had a partial glossectomy with free flap had experienced any discomfort (pizza burn sensation) with their tongue under and around the free flap later on after surgery.
My flap (6 months post-op) has started to feel sore, similar to pizza burn. Very sensitive to mildly hot and cold food and drink. Hurts to touch.
I wondered whether it could be nerves growing back, but trying not to worry about other things.
Thanks in advance.

  • Hi Mr fox

    I've had my free flap for over 3 years & have never experienced any pain with it. I some times get thrush but no pain. I would get it checked out.

    Wendy

  • Hi Mr Fox

    Do get it checked out....but....I can't remember, did you have any RT?

    Though I didn't have any surgery I do get a burning tongue where the RT hit the side of my tongue. I've always considered it as RT damage of the nerves.

    Dani 

    Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019

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    Macmillan Support Line -  0808 808 00 00 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

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  • I had 33 sessions of radiotherapy after my surgery as well. I've never experienced any pain but I guess all are experiences are different. I have no feeling in the flap at all. I don't think they transfer any nerves, just a blood supply. 

    Wendy

  • Hey Beesuit, apologies on the late reply. I did get my throat checked out, they put a scope down my throat, they said there was nothing to be concerned about. They think the sore throat was due to gastric fluid and perscribed PPI's.

    I didn't have any RT or CT after surgery.

    The main area of the sensation appears to be around the join of the flap to the tongue. I have an appointment tomorrow and will speak to the team.

  • Good news....thanks for the update. 

    Dani 

    Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019

    I BLOGGED MY TREATMENT 

    Macmillan Support Line -  0808 808 00 00 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

    Community Champion badge