Abstract
Despite the generous blood supply, and resultant healing capacity within the head
and neck, complex wounds in this area may be extremely debilitating and present an
obstacle to treatment for the reconstructive surgeon. Delayed, incomplete, or otherwise
suboptimal wound healing within this anatomical region may lead to both functional
and aesthetically displeasing outcomes, resulting in impaired speech or swallowing,
social stigma, and, in severe cases, exposure of critical underlying structures. Due
to implications, with regard to wound formation following surgical intervention, the
facial reconstructive surgeon, in particular, must be familiar with the multitude
of treatment modalities available. This article serves as a review of the underlying
pathophysiology of wound healing, local and systemic processes that may influence
the healing process, and treatments that facilitate tissue restoration while mitigating
future complications.
Keywords
wounds - complications - wound healing - contaminated wounds - wound bed preparation
