Postoperative pulmonary complication as an emerging complication in major head and neck cancer surgery: A retrospective study.

[PURPOSE] Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) are one of the most significant complications following head and neck cancer surgery (HNCS). Patients requiring tracheostomy, free tissue transfer reconstruction, and postoperative ventilation in an intensive care unit (ICU) may have a high incidence of PPCs. This study aimed to identify the most likely situations for developing PPCs in HNCS.

[MATERIALS AND METHODS] A retrospective analysis of 40 patients who had undergone HNCS has been conducted. We individually traced each patient for 7 days postoperatively and collected data on various parameters.

[RESULT] The incidence of PPCs after HNCS is more with free flap reconstruction. Patient-related risk factors with PPCs were advanced age, smoking, body mass index (BMI) >25, and bilateral or unilateral neck dissection. Postoperative ICU stay was significantly related to an increased incidence of PPCs. In terms of specific surgical sites, both the maxilla and mandible also showed significant relationship with PPCs. Tracheostomy was also considered a related factor in developing PPCs.

[CONCLUSION] To reduce PPCs in HNCS, patients with one or more of these risk factors should be subjected to exaggerated postoperative pulmonary care.