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Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery

Restoration of form and function after oncologic, traumatic, or congenital head and neck defects.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery?

Head and neck reconstructive surgery is a multidisciplinary subspecialty that repairs complex defects of the face, oral cavity, jaws, pharynx, larynx, and skull base, most often following tumor ablation or severe trauma.

Reconstructive options follow a ladder from primary closure and skin grafts to local rotation flaps, pedicled regional flaps such as pectoralis major, and microvascular free flaps including radial forearm, anterolateral thigh, and fibula osteocutaneous flaps.

Goals are to obtain stable wound coverage, restore mandibular and maxillary continuity, preserve speech and swallowing, protect critical structures, and provide an acceptable cosmetic outcome compatible with adjuvant radiotherapy.

Symptoms

Visible facial or neck defect after tumor resection
Oral cavity opening to the skin (orocutaneous fistula)
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Altered speech and articulation
Salivary leakage or drooling
Asymmetric facial contour
Exposed bone, plate, or vessels

Risk Factors

Advanced head and neck cancer requiring wide resection
Previous radiotherapy to the surgical field
Major maxillofacial trauma
Osteoradionecrosis of the mandible
Recurrent tumor after prior surgery
Chronic smoking and poor nutrition
Comorbid vascular disease affecting flap success

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Planned major head and neck cancer surgery
  • Composite mandibular or maxillary resection
  • Trauma with bone and soft tissue loss
  • Failed prior reconstruction
  • Persistent fistula or wound breakdown
  • Severe functional or cosmetic deformity
  • Need for dental and prosthetic rehabilitation

Treatment Methods

01
Multidisciplinary planning with head and neck oncology team
02
Local and regional flaps for moderate defects
03
Microvascular free flap reconstruction for composite defects
04
Fibula free flap for mandibular continuity
05
Anterolateral thigh flap for large soft tissue defects
06
Postoperative speech and swallowing rehabilitation
07
Long-term follow-up for tumor surveillance and revision

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.