Evolution of Head and Neck Cancer Management

From the historical introduction of microsurgery and free flap reconstruction to the adoption of robotic surgery and virtual surgical planning in the modern era, ablative and reconstructive surgery for head and neck cancer continues to improve in reliability and sophistication with commensurate improvement in functional and aesthetic outcomes. This chapter will discuss five key landmark papers and explore how they, together with other important supporting publications, have shaped contemporary practice in head and neck cancer surgery, specifically in: It aims to provide insight into the relevant history, challenges encountered, and milestones achieved in the field. The topics of virtual surgical planning per se and mandibular reconstruction are discussed elsewhere.