Complex Head and Neck Resection, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation in Children.

ABSTRACT

Pediatric head and neck tumors are uncommon but the consequences of radical resection are extensive. These tumors, benign and malignant, are uniquely challenging because of their proximity to critical functional and neurovascular structures and intimately affect speech, swallowing, voice, breathing, hearing, and vision. In addition, the psychosocial and emotional trauma from the cosmetic and functional consequences can be enduring. Their relative rarity limits surgeon experience and requires a focused effort to develop individual and programmatic expertise. A practiced multidisciplinary team can facilitate smooth preoperative evaluations, efficient coordinated operative procedures, comprehensive rehabilitation, and recovery, as well as optimal oncologic outcomes.