Purpose of review: This paper reviews the advances in surgery in head and neck cancer patients.
Recent findings: Sentinel node biopsy is a promising diagnostic technique to detect occult lymph node metastases, especially in oral carcinomas. Fludeoxyglucose-PET seems to be useful in detecting recurrent (laryngeal) carcinoma after radiotherapy. The role of fludeoxyglucose-PET to detect residual disease in the neck after radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy is not yet clear. The armamentarium of reconstructive surgery is still expanding. Endonasal endoscopic, robotic surgery and image-guided surgery are used as minimal invasive surgery in selected patients. Other advances include photodynamic therapy, ultrasonic surgery and mechanical sutures.
Summary: New diagnostic techniques are used to avoid futile extensive surgery. Technical improvements have been made to treat head and neck cancer patients with minimal invasive surgery. Large prospective trials are needed to determine the indications for each technique.