Antoine Melkane
Dr. Antoine Melkane is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the Saint Joseph University School of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon.
Dr. Melkane graduated from the Saint Joseph University School of Medicine in 2004. After completing his Otolaryngology residency at the Hotel Dieu de France University Hospital in 2009, he underwent fellowship training in Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery at the Gustave Roussy Institute, Paris XI University, Villejuif, France (2009-2012), then at the Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, MI, USA (2012-2013). He joined the Otolaryngology department of the Hotel Dieu de France University Hospital in 2014, and since, has been actively involved in the care of head and neck cancer patients.
Dr. Melkane holds a Master of Surgical Science from the Paris XI University (2012). His main research interests involve the implication of Human Papillomavirus in oropharyngeal cancers, and the role of sentinel node biopsy in early oral cancers. He has published over 40 original articles in peer-reviewed journals. He serves on the scientific board of the European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Diseases. He also serves as a reviewer for many other journals including Head & Neck, Laryngoscope, and JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
Sessions
Description: This session will explore recent advancements in oral cavity surgery that balance oncologic control with preservation of function and quality of life. It will highlight innovative surgical approaches, including microvascular free flap reconstruction, and nerve-preserving techniques that minimize morbidity. Emerging trends such as the use of intraoperative imaging, navigation systems, and fluorescence-guided surgery for margin assessment will be discussed. Additionally, the session will examine the role of precision diagnostics and molecular profiling in surgical planning, along with multidisciplinary strategies to enhance functional outcomes in speech, swallowing, and aesthetics following resection.
Outcome Objectives:
Describe current surgical innovations in the treatment of oral cavity cancers, including TORS and advanced reconstructive techniques.
Evaluate the role of image-guided and fluorescence-assisted surgery in achieving clear margins.
Understand the impact of nerve preservation and reconstructive strategies on postoperative function and quality of life.
Integrate molecular and genomic data into surgical planning and risk stratification.
Apply multidisciplinary strategies to optimize oncologic and functional outcomes in oral cavity cancer care.
Background: Oral cavity cancers present a unique clinical challenge, where surgical treatment must achieve clear oncologic margins while preserving critical functions such as speech, swallowing, and appearance. Historically, extensive resections often led to significant morbidity. However, advances in surgical techniques, reconstruction, and perioperative care have markedly improved both survival and quality of life.
Technologies like transoral robotic surgery have enabled more precise resections in anatomically challenging regions, while microvascular free flaps and 3D planning have enhanced reconstructive outcomes. Intraoperative tools such as fluorescence-guided surgery and augmented imaging systems offer real-time assistance in assessing margins, reducing the risk of local recurrence. Moreover, molecular profiling is increasingly used to guide treatment selection and tailor follow-up.
This session is designed for head and neck surgeons, oncologists, and allied specialists committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care in oral cavity surgery. Through expert-led presentations and case-based discussions, attendees will gain practical knowledge to adopt these advances in their clinical practice.