09-13, 11:45–12:45 (Europe/Istanbul), Head & Neck Surgery 1
Hypopharyngeal carcinoma often presents at an advanced stage and requires aggressive multimodal treatment. Surgery plays a crucial role both as a primary option—combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy—and increasingly as salvage therapy. Surgical procedures frequently involve neighboring organs such as the larynx and esophagus, making the reconstructive surgeon’s role particularly vital.This round table aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the reconstructive challenges related to hypopharyngeal defects, considering orientation, shape, extent (partial or circumferential), and involvement of adjacent structures.Topics include reconstruction with free and pedicled flaps, salvage settings, and laryngeal preservation. Special focus will be given to complications, pharyngoesophageal rehabilitation, and quality of life.
To explore reconstructive strategies for hypopharyngeal defects, promote a defect-oriented approach, and discuss patient-centered decision-making based on performance status, functional outcomes, and quality of life.
Dr. Todor Popov is current Head of Department of ENT at the Medical University - Sofia, Bulgaria, a position he has held since May 2023. His surgical expertise encompasses a wide range of areas including head and neck surgery, microsurgical free flap reconstruction, transoral laser surgery, endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery, treatment of laryngeal stenosis, and various ear surgeries including cochlear implants. Dr. Popov's research focuses on genetics and epigenetics of head and neck carcinoma, neoangiogenesis, microRNAs, cancer field theory, and biomarkers. He has led several research projects and published numerous papers in reputable journals, demonstrating his significant contributions to the field. Fluent in English and German. Dr. Popov has participated in numerous fellowships and courses across Europe, continuously enhancing his skills in various aspects of ENT surgery. He has also been involved in multiple research projects, with a particular focus on microRNA expression in laryngeal carcinoma and its implications for prognosis and treatment. His work has been presented at major international congresses, including the European ORL-HNS Congress and the European Rhinologic Society Congress.
01/03/24 to present
Full Professor in Otorhinolaryngology, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome
01/01/23 to 1/3/24
Associate Professor in Otorhinolaryngology, Humanitas University Milan
01/10/2018 to 31/12/22
Adjunct Professor in Otorhinolaryngology, Humanitas University Milan
20/02/2018 to present
Staff Physician at the ENT Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Milan, Italy
Davide Di Santo is a staff member of the ENT Department of UZ Leuven, Belgium, where he works as a head and neck surgeon. Professional expertise covers head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery. Research work is specifically focused on salivary gland cancer.
