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52078 - Partial Tongue Excision

MBS service description:

Tongue, partial excision of (H) (Anaes.) (Assist.)
Schedule Fee:
336.85
@85% Benefit Fee:
@75% Benefit Fee:
Last updated on
March 29, 2025

When is item code 52078 (Partial Tongue Excision) typically used?

The need for partial excision of the tongue arises when a patient has a localized lesion—such as a tumour, cyst, or chronic ulcer—on the tongue that requires surgical removal under anesthesia with assistance in a hospital to eliminate pathology, relieve symptoms, or prevent progression. This procedure targets specific areas of the tongue affected by disease, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, and is indicated when the lesion impacts speech, swallowing, or risks malignancy. It is critical in the maxillofacial region where tongue function is essential for communication and nutrition.

Reasons include:

  • Tumours: A small carcinoma on the tongue tip might need excision to stop spread and confirm diagnosis.
  • Chronic ulcers: A persistent sore with malignant potential requires removal to heal and rule out cancer.
  • Cysts: A growth under the tongue causing swelling might impair speech, needing excision for relief.
  • Trauma repair: A damaged tongue section from injury could need trimming to restore shape and function.

For example, a smoker with a 2 cm tongue tumour might need this to remove cancer early, preserving speech with assistance ensuring precision. In aged care, an elderly patient with a chronic tongue ulcer could require this to prevent progression, given their cancer risk. By excising the affected portion, this service eliminates disease, maintains tongue utility, and prevents complications, making it essential for managing significant tongue pathology in the maxillofacial area.

Benefits to the patient

Surgeons performing partial excision of the patient’s tongue under anesthesia with assistance provide significant benefits for specific conditions. A primary advantage is pathology removal. This procedure eliminates the patient’s abnormal tissue—like tumors or ulcers—resolving symptoms—crucial for 'tongue excision benefits.' It also preserves tongue function by excising only the affected portion, ensuring the patient retains speech and swallowing abilities. Furthermore, it prevents disease spread by addressing the issue early, protecting the patient’s overall health. For surgeons exploring 'partial tongue excision advantages,' this assisted service ensures patients benefit from pathology elimination, functional preservation, and disease containment, offering a balanced approach to tongue conditions.

Recovery considerations

Recovery of 2-3 weeks with swelling and speech/diet adjustments; hospital stay possible.

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