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The Multidisciplinary Team in Head and Neck Cancer Reconstruction: A Reference Manual for the Plastic Surgeon
Benjamin D W Belfort1,2,3, Winston R Owens1,2, Olivia G Leonovicz1,2
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
Seminars in Plastic Surgery
|May 23, 2025
Summary
Plastic surgeons are vital in multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) for head and neck cancers (HNCs). This guide details MDT roles to improve patient survival and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Plastic Surgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Head and neck cancers (HNCs) present complex challenges impacting function, aesthetics, and psychological well-being.
- A multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach is essential for comprehensive HNC management.
- Plastic surgeons play a pivotal role within the MDT, integrating surgical expertise with oncologic and rehabilitative objectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the central role of plastic surgeons within the head and neck cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT).
- To provide a practical guide for plastic surgeons on MDT collaboration across all phases of patient care.
- To elucidate how MDT collaboration enhances oncologic, functional, aesthetic, and rehabilitative outcomes for HNC patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of plastic surgeon roles in HNC management within an MDT framework.
- Analysis of collaborative strategies between plastic surgeons and other MDT members (e.g., oncologists, radiation oncologists, speech therapists, psychologists).
- Emphasis on the integration of aesthetic and functional considerations with oncologic goals throughout preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care.
Main Results:
- MDTs, with plastic surgery integration, optimize aesthetic and functional results alongside oncologic control.
- Collaborative planning ensures comprehensive patient rehabilitation and addresses psychological impacts.
- Defined roles within the MDT facilitate seamless patient care pathways.
Conclusions:
- Plastic surgeons are integral to the HNC MDT, significantly contributing to improved patient outcomes.
- Effective MDT collaboration, guided by this practical approach, enhances survival rates and quality of life for head and neck cancer patients.
- The manuscript serves as a valuable resource for plastic surgeons navigating the complexities of HNC treatment within a multidisciplinary setting.
