The impact of unplanned reoperations in head and neck cancer surgery on survival

The head and neck area is comprised of complex anatomical structure in close association with respiration, swallowing, speaking and appearance. Thus, head and neck cancer (HNC) surgery is frequently combined with reconstructive surgery. Surgical ablation of tumors is still one of the main treatment options for HNC. It plays an independent role in early stage HNC [1]. Along with non-surgical treatment modalities, surgical ablation has been used for advanced stage HNC [1]. Most HNCs are diagnosed in the elderly and they are associated with habitual smoking, alcohol drinking and malnutrition [2 –4].
Source: Oral Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research