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Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction in Puerto Rico: Developing a Two-team approach to Microvascular
Gabriel Hernández1, Javier González-Castro1, Laureano Giráldez-Rodríguez1
1Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR.
Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal
|May 9, 2020
Summary
This case study highlights a two-team surgical approach for hypopharyngeal carcinoma, improving outcomes. Free flap reconstruction enhances swallowing function and reduces complications in head and neck cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Hypopharyngeal carcinoma, a subset of head and neck cancer, has a low survival rate.
- Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, often requiring reconstruction.
- Surgical reconstruction choice depends on tumor extent and involvement.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male with T4aN3M0 hypopharyngeal carcinoma was treated in Puerto Rico.
- A simultaneous two-team surgical approach was employed for tumor removal and free-flap reconstruction.
- This method reduced operative time by enabling concurrent procedures.
Findings:
- Free flap reconstruction facilitated larger resection margins.
- Improved functional outcomes, particularly in swallowing, were observed.
- Post-operative morbidity was decreased in patients who had undergone prior radiation therapy.
Implications:
- The two-team approach is a viable strategy for complex hypopharyngeal cancer surgery.
- Free flap reconstruction offers significant benefits for functional recovery and patient outcomes.
- This technique may enhance the management of advanced head and neck cancers.
