Best head & Neck Reconstructive and microvascular specialist in Pune
Microvascular Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery
Microvascular head and neck reconstructive surgery is an advanced surgical technique used to restore form and function after cancer surgery involving the head and neck region. Treatment for head and neck cancers often requires removal of tumors along with surrounding bone, muscle, skin, or nerves. This can affect appearance, speech, swallowing, and breathing.
Microvascular reconstruction uses healthy tissue along with its blood supply from another part of the body to rebuild complex structures. By reconnecting tiny blood vessels under a microscope, surgeons achieve durable reconstruction that helps patients regain both function and confidence.
Microvascular reconstruction uses healthy tissue along with its blood supply from another part of the body to rebuild complex structures. By reconnecting tiny blood vessels under a microscope, surgeons achieve durable reconstruction that helps patients regain both function and confidence.
What Is Microvascular Free Flap Reconstruction
Microvascular reconstruction, also known as free flap surgery, involves transferring tissue such as skin, muscle, bone, or a combination of these from a donor site to the head and neck region.
This technique helps to
- Restore facial contour and appearance
- Reconstruct internal structures such as the tongue, jaw, or throat
- Improve speech, swallowing, and chewing
- Support long term cancer control without compromising quality of life
Types of Head and Neck Reconstruction
Microvascular Free Flap Reconstruction
- This is the standard approach for complex head and neck defects. Tissue containing its own blood vessels is harvested and reattached using microsurgical techniques to ensure healthy blood flow and long term survival of the flap.
- Commonly used free flaps include:
- Radial forearm free flap
- Anterolateral thigh flap
- Fibula flap for jaw reconstruction
Custom Prosthetic Reconstruction
- Custom made prostheses are used to restore external structures such as
- Ear
- Nose
- Portions of the jaw or facial bones
- These are helpful when surgical reconstruction is not feasible or as an adjunct to surgery.
Scar Revision and Aesthetic Correction
- After cancer treatment, selected patients may undergo scar revision or cosmetic refinement to improve appearance and functional outcomes through a personalized treatment plan.
Microvascular Free Flap Reconstruction
Reconstruction may be performed at the time of tumor removal or after completion of cancer treatment. In complex cases, immediate reconstruction allows better functional recovery and reduces long term complications.
Treatment planning is individualized based on tumor location, extent of resection, overall health, and need for additional therapy.
Benefits of Microvascular Reconstruction
Cancer surgery in the head and neck region can affect vital structures responsible for speech and swallowing. Microvascular reconstruction helps
- Preserve function
- Restore facial symmetry
- Improve speech and swallowing
- Enhance quality of life
- Allow timely radiation or chemotherapy when required
- This approach balances effective cancer control with functional restoration.
Importance of Specialist Care
Microvascular reconstruction requires advanced surgical expertise and multidisciplinary coordination. Management by an experienced head and neck surgical oncologist ensures optimal cancer clearance along with effective reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Recovery After Microvascular Reconstruction Surgery
Recovery depends on the extent of surgery and reconstruction.
- Most patients recover within four to six weeks after surgery. Hospital stay is carefully monitored. Speech and swallowing therapy may be required. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy can begin once healing is adequate.
Contact us
If you are undergoing head and neck cancer surgery and are concerned about appearance, speech, or swallowing after treatment, expert reconstructive planning is essential.
Consult Dr. Vidita Powle, Consultant Surgical Oncologist, for comprehensive head and neck cancer surgery with advanced microvascular reconstruction tailored to your needs.