title: Management of vascular complications of head and neck cancer.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Major vascular complications in patients with head and neck cancer have previously been thought of as terminal events. However, it is now possible to intervene in many situations, with benefits for quality of life as well as survival. Endovascular techniques have reduced morbidity and mortality in many situations, both emergency and elective.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe the techniques that can be employed in such situations, and present illustrative case reports. Life-threatening haemorrhage, carotid compression and radiation-induced carotid stenosis are all discussed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  It is possible to predict where complications may arise, and to take prophylactic steps to allow treatment to continue. Early intervention can reduce both morbidity and mortality in this high-risk patient group.
authors: Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University College Hospital, London, UK. jrimmer@doctors.org.uk
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Rimmer
authors: C E B
authors: CE
authors: Giddings
authors: F
authors: F
authors: Vaz
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Brooks
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Hopper
mesh_terms: D019917:Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation / Q000009:adverse effects; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D002340:Carotid Artery Diseases / Q000401:mortality / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D016893:Carotid Stenosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000077195:Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck; D015607:Stents / Q000009:adverse effects; D015996:Survival Rate; D014059:Tongue / Q000098:blood supply