Identifying and exploring the future role of innovative digital technologies in reconstruction of the head and neck.

Image Acquisition
Prototyping
Computerized Planning Systems
Color Measurement and Formulation
Navigation Systems
Robotic Systems
Assessment of Function
Virtual Reality
Patient Data Management

History of the Advanced Technology Conference

In March of 2002, a three-day workshop on advanced technology applications for head and neck reconstruction was held in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The conference was co-hosted by the Craniofacial Osseointegration and the Maxillofacial Prosthetic Rehabilitation Unit, Misericordia Hospital,

Caritas Health Group/University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada and the Maxillofacial Unit, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, Wales, UK. The initial intent was to hold a small meeting to discuss potential for collaboration between professionals and potential industry partners to identify advanced technologies in head and neck reconstruction. Delegates participated from thirteen countries. At the conclusion of the meeting, findings of a questionnaire on future directions was discussed. The result was a unanimous decision to continue to a full international conference of broader scope.
 

Honorary Conference Chair Welcome Address

Mark Urken, MD
Director, Head and Neck for Continuum Cancer Center of New York
Co-Director, Head and Neck Thyroid Cancer Institute at Beth Israel’s Medical Center, New York, New York, US

The highly complex anatomical and functional nature of the head and neck region provides a great challenge to technology for diagnosis and treatment. While great progress has been made with technology to support head and neck care, it can be speculated that, as never before, we are to be propelled by technology in the care we provide. Arguably, advanced digital technologies will be at the forefront of the near-to-medium term advances that will influence how we deliver head and neck reconstructive care. The advanced digital technologies that are arriving and the potential for these technologies to converge will change the way we deliver head and neck reconstructive care. As remarkable and profound as this change will be, so will it challenge us in patterns of practice, professional development and health economics. Today, we think little of requesting three-dimensional imaging studies but the convergence of working in a virtual space with a range of technologies such as haptic devices, robotics, navigation tools and virtual reality will soon change how we provide care as well as how we teach and train in head and neck care. An important component of the conference will be to bring researchers, clinicians and industry partners together to consider the future.

Advanced digital technologies are poised to have a profound and far reaching impact in our field. We hope you will join us in Banff to consider the fascinating influence that digital technologies will have on the future of head and neck reconstruction. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Conference Centre provide us with a beautiful and impressive venue for the conference. We look forward to welcoming you to the conference and the splendor of the Canadian Rockies.

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