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Head and neck ablative and microvascular reconstructive surgery in the UK: current operating team composition
Shofiq Islam1, Gary M Walton1, Sumeet Raj1
1University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Clifford Bridge Rd, Coventry CV2 2DX.
The British Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
|March 17, 2020
Summary
Most UK head and neck cancer surgeries use a two-team approach for microvascular free flap reconstruction. This study surveyed 54 maxillofacial units, finding 82% adopt this common practice.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Major head and neck cancer surgery often requires complex ablative and reconstructive procedures.
- Microvascular free flap reconstruction is a critical component of restoring function and form after major head and neck resections.
- Understanding current team composition is essential for optimizing surgical training and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current team composition and operative models in major head and neck ablative and reconstructive surgery across the UK.
- To identify the prevalence of different operating team structures in centers performing microvascular free flap surgery.
Main Methods:
- A national survey of maxillofacial surgery units in the UK was conducted.
- Data on the adopted operating model, specifically team composition for free flap surgery, were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- The survey identified 54 active maxillofacial units performing microvascular free flap reconstructive surgery.
- A significant majority, 44 units (82%), reported adopting a two-team operative approach.
- No significant association was found between hospital type or the volume of free flaps performed and the operating team model.
Conclusions:
- The two-team operative approach is the predominant model for microvascular free flap head and neck reconstruction in the UK.
- This study offers a valuable overview of current practices, highlighting a standardized approach to team composition in this specialized surgical field.
