Matthew M. Hanasono: Complications in Head and Neck Microsurgery

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In this talk, Matthew M. Hanasono shares case-based insights into the challenges and complications of head and neck microsurgery, highlighting

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In this talk, Matthew M. Hanasono delivers a detailed exploration of the challenges and complexities in head and neck microsurgery, with a particular focus on case-based learning and complication management. He outlines the spectrum of potential issues that arise in microvascular reconstruction, including flap loss, vascular compromise, wound complications, and donor-site morbidity. He provides a clear framework for classifying surgical complications, discussing their underlying causes, clinical presentations, and strategies for prevention. Highlighting his extensive clinical experience, Hanasono presents illustrative cases that demonstrate both common and rare complications, emphasizing practical decision-making in high-risk situations. He underscores the importance of early detection, timely intervention, and adaptive surgical planning in optimizing reconstructive outcomes. Throughout the talk, he addresses critical considerations such as patient selection, vessel choice, postoperative monitoring, and the role of multidisciplinary collaboration. He emphasizes the balance between oncologic safety, functional restoration, and aesthetic outcomes, providing actionable insights for surgeons aiming to refine technique, reduce risk, and improve long-term patient care.

SPEAKER:

Dr. Matthew M. Hanasono is a Professor and Deputy Chair of the Department of Plastic Surgery at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, a nationally recognized institution in cancer care and surgical innovation . After earning his B.S. in Biology (Summa Cum Laude) from UCLA and his M.D. from Stanford University, he completed residencies in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and Plastic Surgery, followed by a fellowship in Reconstructive Microsurgery—all at top-tier institutions .

Since joining the MD Anderson faculty in 2005, Dr. Hanasono has specialized in microvascular free flap reconstruction for head and neck cancer patients, building one of the largest microsurgery fellowship programs in the U.S., which he directed from 2015 to 2024. An internationally sought-after expert, he has delivered over 200 lectures, authored more than 150 scientific articles and 70 textbook chapters, and served as lead editor for key texts including Reconstructive Plastic Surgery of the Head and Neck and the Handbook of Reconstructive Flaps MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Dr. Hanasono’s research focuses on enhancing reconstructive outcomes through innovations in surgical imaging, skull base and facial nerve reconstruction, osteoradionecrosis treatment, extremity salvage, and novel lymphedema intervention. His distinguished recognitions include the prestigious 2014 Godina Traveling Fellowship and numerous teaching and research awards from MD Anderson and leading surgical societies.

Through this wealth of clinical leadership and scholarly achievement, Dr. Hanasono has established himself as a preeminent authority on complication management and advanced microsurgical reconstruction in head and neck oncology.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand Core Principles of Head and Neck Microsurgery – Define the foundations of microvascular reconstruction, including flap selection, vessel choice, and technical considerations.

• Recognize Surgical Complications – Identify common and complex issues such as flap loss, vascular compromise, wound breakdown, and donor-site morbidity.

• Analyze Case-Based Scenarios – Learn from illustrative cases to understand complication patterns, underlying causes, and effective management strategies.

• Refine Surgical Decision-Making – Apply strategies for early detection, intraoperative troubleshooting, and postoperative care to improve patient outcomes.

• Incorporate Multidisciplinary Perspectives – Appreciate the role of oncologic safety, functional restoration, and collaborative planning in comprehensive care.

• Balance Function and Aesthetics – Integrate approaches that restore both form and function, while minimizing morbidity and enhancing quality of life.

This session provides practical insights and frameworks to improve complication management and elevate outcomes in head and neck microsurgery.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

• Head and Neck Surgeons & Reconstructive Microsurgeons – Specialists performing complex oncologic and reconstructive procedures who want to refine their techniques and complication management strategies.

• Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons – Clinicians involved in microvascular reconstruction seeking practical insights into case-based learning and outcomes optimization.

• Otolaryngologists (ENT Specialists) – Surgeons managing head and neck defects who aim to enhance reconstructive planning and reduce morbidity.

• Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons – Practitioners interested in advanced microvascular approaches for complex craniofacial reconstruction.

• Residents & Fellows in Surgical Training – Learners specializing in plastic surgery, otolaryngology, or oral-maxillofacial surgery who wish to build expertise in complication recognition and management.

• Researchers & Academicians – Professionals studying surgical outcomes, reconstructive innovation, and complication reduction in microsurgery.

ONLINE LIVE EVENT ( Free of Charge )

San Francisco: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 5:00 pm

Mexico City: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 7:00 pm

New York: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 8:00 pm

Rio de Janeiro: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 10:00 pm

Houston: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 7:00 pm

Berlin: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 2:00 am

Johannesburg: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 3:00 am

Cairo: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 3:00 am

Dubai: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 5:00 am

Delhi: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 6:30 am

Manila: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 9:00 am

Sydney: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 12:00 noon

LANGUAGE: The event language is english. 

CME ACCREDITATION: This event may be accredited by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME®) for a maximum of 1 European CME credits (ECMEC®s). Each medical specialist should claim only those hours of credit that he/she actually spent in the educational activity. If you are a learner based in the U.S. or Canada EACCME credits are recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

DECLARATION: In accordance with criterion 13 of document UEMS 2023.07.rev “EACCME® Criteria for the Accreditation of Live Educational Events (LEEs)” and the Standard v. Commercial or Promotional Conflict of Interest, published by the American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP), all surgeON presenters sign a Conflict of Interest form to document all perceived or actual conflicts of interest for the last 3 years, whether due to a financial or other relationship. This document can be viewed at the beginning of the event or on request by emailing info@surgeon-events.org No fee, honorarium or arrangement for re-imbursement of expenses in relation to the this event has been provided to the speaker.