Funktionserhalt nach der Therapie von Kopf-Hals-Tumoren

Abstract

Preservation of function is a crucial aspect for the evaluation of therapies applied in the field of head and neck cancer. However, preservation of anatomic structures does not equalize preservation of function. Particularly for the evaluation of alternative treatment options with equivalent oncologic outcome functional outcome becomes increasingly important. Present studies collect with varying emphasize (1) the effects of therapy on essential body functions, (2) additional therapy-induced toxic effects, and (3) health-related quality of life. The present article summarizes vital aspects of clinical research from the last years. Preservation of function after surgical and non-surgical treatment approaches are presented according to tumour localisation and staging criteria. Additional methodological aspects of study design and documentation as well as challenges and present activities for the transformation into clinical practise are discussed.

Performance of microvascular anastomosis with a new robotic visualization system: proof of concept

“…In the field of head and neck surgery extended resections are often challenging as important anatomic structures are located in narrow spaces. Therefore, extensive and safe tumor resections are often associated with considerable loss of function especially concerning swallowing, vocalization and enunciation [1]. Often complex reconstructions are necessary to compensate or vindicate the loss of function and treat the extensive tissue defects after primary resection.…”