Head & Neck Reconstruction for Skin Cancer
Understanding Head & Neck Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, frequently affecting the head and neck due to sun exposure. Early detection and treatment are essential, but surgical removal of cancerous tissue often leaves defects that require reconstruction to restore both form and function.
Types of Skin Cancer in the Head & Neck
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, often developing on sun-exposed areas like the face.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type can appear on the scalp, lips, ears, or other parts of the head and neck.
- Melanoma: A less common but more aggressive form of skin cancer that can develop in the head, neck, and upper trunk. Melanoma often requires comprehensive treatment, including excision and reconstruction.
Sentinel Node Biopsy (SNB) for Melanoma
For patients with high-risk melanoma of the head, neck, or upper trunk, Sentinel Node Biopsy (SNB) is a key procedure. SNB helps determine whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes, providing vital information for further treatment. During this procedure, the first lymph node (sentinel node) that drains from the tumor is identified and biopsied. If cancer cells are present in this node, additional treatment may be necessary.
Comprehensive Reconstruction for Head & Neck Skin Cancer
Following skin cancer removal, especially in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas like the face, scalp, and neck, reconstructive surgery may be needed to close the wound and restore appearance. The extent of reconstruction depends on the size and location of the cancer excision.
At Cutting Edge Surgery Toowoomba, reconstructive procedures are carried out collaboratively by Dr. Assad Bangash, a plastic and reconstructive surgery specialist, and Dr. Nasrin Davarpanah, an experienced general surgeon. Together, they ensure that both functional and aesthetic aspects of head and neck reconstruction are meticulously addressed.
Reconstruction Techniques
- Primary Closure: If the cancer excision is small, the wound edges can be brought together and closed directly.
- Local Flap Reconstruction: For larger excisions, skin from adjacent areas is rotated or moved to cover the defect, ensuring good blood supply and minimizing scarring.
- Skin Grafts: When there isn’t enough nearby skin, skin grafts may be required. Full-thickness or split-thickness grafts are used, depending on the size and depth of the wound.
- Complex Reconstruction: For significant tissue loss due to extensive skin cancer removal, advanced techniques such as flap surgery may be necessary. Tissue from other areas of the body can be used to cover and repair the defect.
Why Choose Us?
At Cutting Edge Surgery Toowoomba, Dr. Bangash and Dr. Davarpanah combine their expertise in reconstructive and skin cancer surgery to deliver optimal results. Their collaborative approach ensures that both cancer removal and reconstruction are handled with precision and care, providing patients with the best opportunity for full recovery and natural-looking outcomes.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with skin cancer in the head or neck region, early treatment and expert reconstruction are crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes.