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Semin Plast Surg 2010; 24(3): 288-298
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1263070
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Complications of Head and Neck Reconstruction and Their Treatment

Bien-Keem Tan1 , Yong-Chen Por2 , Hung-Chi Chen3
  • 1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
  • 2Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore
  • 3E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung County, Taiwan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
20 August 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Head and neck reconstruction is an intensive multistep process that requires attention to detail to achieve a successful result. The knowledge and prevention of complications as well as their management is an essential part of the training of the surgeon participating in head and neck reconstruction. This article explores the general complications, including free flap failure, carotid artery blowout, hardware exposure, and ectropion, as well as regional complications relating to operations of the scalp, cranium, base of skull, midface, mandible, and pharyngoesophagus.

KEYWORDS

Free flap failure - carotid blowout - hardware exposure - ectropion - scalp - cranium - base of skull - midface - mandible - pharyngoesophagus

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Bien-Keem TanM.B.B.S. F.R.C.S. 

Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore 169608

Email: bienkeem@singnet.com.sg

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