Tongue training device aims to restore speech after cancer surgery

NCT ID NCT07110142

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether starting tongue strengthening exercises early, using a device called the Tongueometer, can improve speech and swallowing in people who have had part of their tongue removed due to cancer. The device uses a small air-filled bulb and a mobile app to guide exercises and track progress. Researchers hope this proactive approach leads to better quality of life than waiting to treat problems after they arise. The trial will enroll 40 adults undergoing partial or hemiglossectomy with reconstruction.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Tongueometer device (biofeedback tongue strengthening exercise program)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could establish a new standard of care to help people speak and swallow better after tongue cancer surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The exercises may not lead to meaningful improvements over standard care.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms lip and oral cavity carcinoma Mouth Neoplasms tongue cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation

    RECRUITING

    Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••