[Difficult Wounds in the Head and Neck Area].

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Wound Healing
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Head and neck wound care presents unique challenges due to complex anatomy, function, and aesthetics.
• Effective management requires consideration of systemic/local factors and consistent care to minimize complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review strategies for managing diverse head and neck wounds, including traumatic, iatrogenic, and chronic types.
• To highlight the role of wound closure, suture techniques, dressings, and specialized approaches for difficult wounds.
• To present a case report on pharyngocutaneous fistula management and explore novel therapies.

Main Methods:

• Review of wound care principles for head and neck region.
• Case report detailing management of a pharyngocutaneous fistula.
• Discussion of conventional and advanced treatment modalities, including negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT).

Main Results:

• Specific strategies are needed for traumatic, iatrogenic, and chronic wounds.
• Interdisciplinary and individualized approaches are beneficial for complex wounds like bite injuries or postoperative defects.
• Combined endo- and external NPWT can aid granulation and closure in specific challenging cases, though not standard practice.

Conclusions:

• An individualized, interdisciplinary approach is crucial for optimal head and neck wound healing.
• Innovative techniques, including NPWT and future regenerative procedures, are vital for improving outcomes.
• The focus is on reducing healing time, complications, and optimizing function and aesthetics.