Nutrition and Perioperative Care for the Patient with Head and Neck Cancer.

Recovery after major head and neck cancer surgery is a complex process. In addition to perioperative sequelae such as pain, wound infections, venous thromboembolism (VTE), and pneumonia, these patients frequently suffer from malnutrition. We provide a contemporary evidence-based approach to common aspects of perioperative care to guide the clinician in the optimal management of patients. Particular emphasis is placed on the preoperative education of patients and the identification and management of malnutrition around the time of surgery. This article discusses recommendations for perioperative antibiotics, pain management, and prophylaxis against VTE and pneumonia in this patient population.