ABSTRACT
Resection of a head and neck cancer confronts the patient with several major problems in addition to the impact of their diagnosis; the concentration of anatomical structures intrinsic to eating, breathing and speech ensures these functions may be severely compromised. In addition, surgery may greatly alter an individual’s appearance, thereby affecting their ability to function in society. The effects of tumour excision on the patient’s physiological function and self-esteem cannot be overestimated and, where possible, considerable effort should be made to minimize the impact of both the diagnosis and treatment. By definition this requires the contribution of a multidisciplinary team, each contributing to help restore the patient to some degree of their premorbid state.
