Early contributions by Otolaryngologists in head and neck reconstructive surgery.

Abstract

Examination of contributions of Otolaryngologists to head and neck reconstructive surgery. Historical Evaluation. Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery as a surgical specialty has come to dominate the related fields of head and neck cancer ablative surgery as well as reconstruction as a result of those leaders who established our profession. While some otolaryngologists have always been at the forefront of head and neck surgery and reconstruction; as surgery has become more specialized in the past century, that expertise has been increasingly consolidated within specific academic institutions and training programs. An examination of the various academic trends, world events, and scientific breakthroughs which allowed the advancement of head and neck reconstruction reveals a fascinating history of our specialty.