Postoperative Complications following Surgery for Oral Cavity Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis from a Tertiary Care Centre
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65129/surgical.v1i3.161Keywords:
Postoperative Morbidity, Reconstruction Flap, Surgical Outcomes, Wound DehiscenceAbstract
Background: Treatment for oral cavity cancer typically involves surgical resection, neck dissection, and reconstructive procedures. Postoperative complications can significantly affect surgical outcomes, increase healthcare costs, and prolong hospital stay. This study presents a retrospective analysis of postoperative complications following surgery for oral cavity cancer at a tertiary care center. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on all patients who underwent surgery for oral cavity cancer at the Cancer Institute (WIA), Chennai, between January 1 and December 31, 2024. Data regarding the subsite of the oral cavity, reconstructive procedures, and postoperative morbidity were retrieved from the hospital database. Results: A total of 321 patients underwent surgery for oral cavity cancer in 2024, with the tongue (39.6%) and buccal mucosa (37.1%) being the most commonly involved subsites. Among 213 reconstructive procedures, the pectoralis major flap was the most frequently used (54.9%). Postoperative complications were observed in 42 patients (13.1%), with re-exploration (7.2%) and major orocutaneous fistula (4.7%) being the most common. Based on the Clavien–Dindo classification, Grade IIIA complications were most frequent (8.4%), while Grade V mortality occurred in 0.6% of cases. Conclusion: Surgical management of oral cavity cancer demonstrates low mortality and manageable morbidity. Early identification and prompt management of postoperative complications are crucial in achieving optimal surgical outcomes.
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