Salvage surgeries for head and neck cancers are procedures performed when the cancer reoccurs after initial treatment or when there is persistent disease. These surgeries aim to remove or treat the recurrent or residual cancer and are often considered after radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Salvage surgery is a complex decision involving careful evaluation of the patient's overall health, the location and extent of the cancer, and previous treatment modalities.
Common salvage surgeries may include neck dissection to remove affected lymph nodes, resection of the primary tumor site, or reconstructive surgery to restore form and function. These procedures are often challenging due to the altered anatomy from previous treatments. The goal is to achieve disease control while preserving function and maintaining the best possible quality of life for the patient. Multidisciplinary collaboration among surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists is crucial for planning and executing effective salvage surgeries for head and neck cancers.