Hypopharynx
Postoperative problems affecting the hypopharynx (bottom part of the throat) include
- Variations on the inability to swallow. This can be from sticking of a dry or relatively large bolus of food, to complete obstruction, to liquids and overflow aspiration.
- Aspiration pneumonia is a risk.
- Extreme weight loss and dehydration can be seen in patients with less than complete obstruction who try to cope without professional input.
- Most of these conditions lie outwith the area of expertise of maxillofacial surgery.