Current methods of evaluation and rehabilitation of glossectomy speech behavior are reviewed. These methods include the application of articulatory compensations, phoneme substitution consistency and manipulation of vocal parameters on certain aspects of glossectomy intelligibility. This selective review indicates the need for utilizing objectively based methods of evaluating postoperative changes in speech intelligibility. Only then will clinicians be able to effectively plan therapy, indicate progress and predict ultimate communicative potential for their clients. In addition to the clinical rehabilitation methods, two procedures involving the restoration of lost tongue functions by using a mandibular tongue prosthesis and oral reconstructive surgery are included.
