Description
Cancer, trauma and congenital anomalies are the predominant causes of head and neck defects. Reconstruction is required to provide an acceptable cosmetic result and to restore functions such as speech and swallowing. Tumour, previous head and neck surgery or radiotherapy may distort the airway anatomy and can pose unique airway problems. Careful airway assessment, risk stratification and preoperative planning in close liaison with the head and neck surgeon are essential. Considerations should be given for elective tracheostomy for the safe management of the airway postoperatively. Reconstructive surgery using microvascular tissue transfer is a major procedure, which is technically challenging. This necessitates intensive postoperative monitoring with a dedicated team familiar with the concepts of flap monitoring.
