RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

HEAD AND NECK RECONSTRUCTION

Head and neck surgery is the reconstruction of the parts of the head and neck following cancer surgery or trauma. An advanced reconstructive microsurgical procedure is often necessary to reconstruct defects after the removal of neck and head tumours. Blood vessels, bone, tissue, muscle and skin from other areas of the body (referred to by plastic surgeons as flaps) are used to reconstruct regions of the head and neck. Through the use of an operating microscope, the flap's blood vessels are sutured to blood vessels in the neck to restore function as far as possible.

Primarily, microvascular head and neck reconstruction treats head and neck cancers but also restores the structure of the head and neck after larynx, pharynx, tongue, skin and jaw cancer. Head and neck cancer not only has an aesthetic effect but also affects functions such as speech and feeding. Head and neck reconstruction helps restore the appearance and function of these areas, which may be affected following removal of cancerous tumours.

Dr Sooka is extensively trained in this form of reconstruction, having completed an 18-month microsurgery fellowship in which he performed these surgeries.

PROCEDURE

All head and neck reconstructions are performed under a general anaesthetic. These are complex, intricate surgeries that are highly individualised to each patient and their predisposing medical condition.

RECOVERY

After surgery, patients remain in an intensive care unit for the initial post-operative period for close monitoring and treatment of their medical status. Once stable, they are then transferred to a normal ward to recover further. Physical therapy and rehabilitation at this stage is a priority and crucial to overall success of the surgery and reconstruction. A team of physicians, oncologists, head and neck surgeons, physiotherapists and speech therapists work together to provide holistic care to their patients.

The recovery period for this sort of reconstruction varies widely depending on the type of cancer and the type of reconstruction performed.