Abstract:The base of the tongue is a key anatomical structure in the oropharynx. The management of lesions at the base of the tongue presents significant challenges due to the complex anatomy and critical functions of this region. This review aims to summarize the classification of lesions at the tongue base, and discuss the current status, clinical value, and technological innovations of core diagnostic methods such as endoscopy, imaging techniques, and pathological biopsy. Furthermore, this paper focuses on the optimization of surgical (transoral, transcervical, transmandibular, etc.) approaches. The evolution of surgical treatment strategies is illustrated by innovations and applications in microscopy, endoscopy, laser technology, low-temperature plasma radiofrequency knives and robotic technology.