A Primer for Pediatric Plastic Surgeons on Pediatric Head and Neck Malignancies: Part III-Common Management Strategies for Pediatric Head and Neck Tumors.

Abstract

After studying this article, the participant should be able to (1) understand the nonsurgical and surgical techniques and advancements in the management of pediatric head and neck cancers, (2) describe the common management strategies used in pediatric head and neck cancers, and (3) Understand therapies to target head and neck cancers within pediatric patient populations. Pediatric head and neck cancer management is complex and often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Management goals aim to deliver a multimodal treatment approach that integrates surgery with concurrent medical management through adjuvant and/or neoadjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Patients in remission should be monitored closely for recurrence or long-term treatment complications. Harmonizing a multidisciplinary approach between pediatric oncologists, hematologists, radiologists, pathologists, and surgeons is a priority. This review discusses advances in management strategies used for common pediatric head and neck malignancies, with a focus on surgical and medical techniques as well as treatment complications that can arise.