Median labiomandibular glossotomy.

The median labiomandibular glossotomy has been advocated to facilitate the removal of tumors in the base of the tongue, epiglottis, and posterior pharyngeal wall. Recently, the technique has been incorporated into a method that provides exposure to the clivus, upper cervical vertebrae, and the cervicomedullary junction. In this instance, the removal of a healthy mandibular incisor tooth was recommended. The case reported in this article illustrates the success of median labiomandibular glossotomy without sacrificing healthy teeth or jeopardizing a functional occlusion.