'My leg helped rebuild my tongue after cancer'

The article discusses the case of a woman from Cornwall, UK, who underwent a unique medical procedure to rebuild her tongue after being diagnosed with cancer. The woman had initially visited a dentist for a routine check-up, which led to the discovery of a cancerous growth on her tongue. As a result, she underwent surgery to remove the affected area, leaving her with a partially missing tongue. To address this, the woman's doctors used a portion of her leg muscle to reconstruct her tongue, a procedure known as a "free flap." This innovative technique allowed her to regain the functionality of her tongue, enabling her to speak and swallow normally again. The article emphasizes the importance of regular dental check-ups, as the woman's diagnosis was made during a routine visit. It serves as a reminder that early detection can be crucial in the treatment of certain medical conditions, such as oral cancer.