ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the surgical treatment of tonsillar cancer.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Twenty-four patients with tonsillar cancer were treated with surgery and postoperative radiotherapy. The choice of surgical procedure was decided on the condition of the lesion. The tumor was resected through the transoral approach, mandibular swing approach, mandibular resection approach or hyoid approach. Surgical defect was repaired by pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, sternohyoid myofascial flap, tongue flap or soft palate flap.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The 3- and 5-year survival rates were 76.0% and 60.8%. Function of chewing, deglutition, respiration and speech was restored well.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Method of total resection of the tonsillar carcinoma through the optimum approach is best chosen according to the condition of the lesion, while preserving the oropharyngeal function. When combined with postoperative radiotherapy, the survival rate and quality of life of patients can be improved.</p>