Abstract
The years 1960 to 1980 represent a period of assessment and advancement in head and neck surgery. Basic operations were broadly applied and extended in their radicality. These techniques were standardized and more recently have been modified by conservatism and the strong introduction of preoperative and postoperative irradiation for advanced neoplasms and those persons at high risk. Chemotherapy is attempting to gain a role. The greatest innovation during this period was the discovery and use of a great variety of regional flaps to assist in the rehabilitation of these large and dangerous wounds.