Beyond Tumor Removal: Reconstructive Decision-making After Parotidectomy

Saturday, October 17, 2026

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM PT

Location: 502B

Moderator(s)

Matthew J. Mifsud, MD

Associate Professor &Interim Chair, Chief Division of Head & Neck Oncology & Reconstructive Surgery
University of South Florida Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Tampa, Florida, United States

Panelist(s)

Rodrigo Bayon, MD

Associate Professor
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Iowa City, Iowa, United States
Alexandra E. Kejner, MD, FACS

Associate Professor Head&Neck Surgical Oncology, Microvascular Reconstruction
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, United States
PP

Patrik Pipkorn, MD

Associate Professor
Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery Washington University
St. Louis, Missouri, United States

This case-based panel will guide participants through reconstructive strategies for increasingly complex post-parotidectomy defects. Faculty will discuss the application of fat grafts, allografts, and local soft-tissue flaps following superficial parotidectomy; reconstruction in cases involving cutaneous resection; and selection between regional pedicled flaps and free tissue transfer for extensive defects. Additional focus will include reconstructive considerations following facial nerve sacrifice, comparing static and dynamic options and outlining patient- and defect-specific decision-making frameworks. Emphasis will be placed on practical, real-world strategies applicable across varied practice environments.

Learning Objectives:

Evaluate the role of fat grafting, allografts, and local soft-tissue flaps in optimizing aesthetic and functional outcomes following superficial parotidectomy.
Compare indications, benefits, and limitations of locoregional versus free tissue reconstruction for complex parotid defects.
Assess reconstructive options following facial nerve sacrifice and identify key factors guiding selection of static versus dynamic techniques.