Three cases of postoperative cutaneous ulcer in the head and neck region treated with negative pressure wound therapy

Cervical cutaneous ulcer resulting from postoperative infection and flap necrosis is one of the most troublesome complications after head and neck cancer surgery. In some cases, although spontaneous closure is achieved with conservative treatment such as adequate drainage, neck compression and frequent dressings, it takes longer to be completely cured. In this report, we review three cases of postoperative cutaneous ulcer in the head and neck region treated with negative pressure wound therapy. Successful wound healing was achieved in all three cases and the RENASYS® system was used in two of them. Actual mechanisms of NPWT might have functioned effectively in all three cases. Even though careful adaptation is required, we consider NPWT as a useful option for the treatment of postoperative cervical cutaneous ulcer in the head and neck region.