Indocyanine green (ICG) angiography is a real-time imaging modality that can be used to assess intraoperative tissue perfusion. ICG dye has proven to be feasible, safe, and cost-effective, especially for muscle flaps during complex reconstructions. To our knowledge, we discuss the first use of ICG angiography for the real-time assessment of a tongue flap following left lateral hemiglossectomy. ICG angiography showed excellent perfusion of the tongue and tongue flap, which subsequently led to an uncomplicated postoperative recovery.
Conclusion: The use of ICG angiography for the real-time assessment of blood flow is a valuable and feasible tool for the intraoperative assessment of perfusion in extended hemiglossectomies with local flap reconstruction. It may be especially beneficial in cases involving complex reconstructions, and when regional organ hypoperfusion is suspected.
