Purpose of review: This article critically analyzes the recent literature on microvascular head and neck reconstruction after (chemo)radiation [(C)RT], taking into consideration both the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and their clinical consequences. Recent findings: Microvascular reconstruction has gradually become a mainstay in the management of head and neck cancer both in primary and salvage scenarios. However, limited data are available concerning the influence of previous radiotherapy/chemoradiation therapy (CRT) on free flap survival and surgical complications. Molecular studies show that the effects of radiotherapy/CRT may be essentially reduced to three components: inflammation, a prothrombotic state and fibrosis. From a clinical point of view, this is reflected in a moderate increase in free flaps failure and surgical complications. Nevertheless, free flaps continue to offer clear advantages even in such an unfavorable condition. Summary: Radiotherapy/CRT induce a less favorable tissue environment, potentially leading to a higher risk of complications. In this scenario, however, free tissue transfer still plays the role of favoring wound healing bringing well vascularized tissue to less vascularized microenvironments.
Microvascular head and neck reconstruction after (chemo)radiation : facts and prejudices / A. Paderno, C. Piazza, L. Bresciani, R. Vella, P. Nicolai. - In: CURRENT OPINION IN OTOLARYNGOLOGY & HEAD AND NECK SURGERY. - ISSN 1068-9508. - 24:2(2016), pp. 83-90.
Titolo: | Microvascular head and neck reconstruction after (chemo)radiation : facts and prejudices |
Autori: | |
Parole Chiave: | chemoradiation; chemotherapy; head and neck cancer; microvascular surgery; radiotherapy; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Humans; Microcirculation; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures; Vascular Surgical Procedures; Chemoradiotherapy; Surgery; Otorhinolaryngology; 2734; Pathology and Forensic Medicine |
Settore Scientifico Disciplinare: | Settore MED/31 - Otorinolaringoiatria |
Data di pubblicazione: | 2016 |
Rivista: | |
Tipologia: | Article (author) |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI): | http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/MOO.0000000000000243 |
Appare nelle tipologie: | 01 - Articolo su periodico |
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