Our ward is an important area of the hospital that specialises in the surgical treatment and care of oncological patients in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The frequently treated clinical pictures include repositioning osteotomies, jaw fractures, jaw necrosis, abscesses and tumour surgery. With 32 beds, it offers space for people of all ages, from young to elderly patients. The ward has a treatment room with two treatment units for the daily care of wounds or minor procedures.

Here we care for patients with a variety of needs, such as tracheotomised patients who require special respiratory nursing care, as well as people who receive nutrition via PEG or gastric tube. We also take care of wound care to promote rapid and optimal healing.

Another important aspect is the treatment of patients with mouth opening restrictions, which sometimes makes nursing and communication more challenging. Tissue swelling can also occur after surgery, which can affect recovery. Cooling the operated area is therefore particularly important to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. We use modern methods such as Hilotherm cooling or evaporative cooling, which ensure effective and gentle cooling.

A particular focus is on cooperation with the neighbouring ENT ward in order to optimise the care of our oncological patients. Together, the maxillofacial and ENT departments form the Head & Neck Centre, a certified oncology centre that ensures comprehensive and specialised treatment. The illustration of the oncological patients shows the close networking and interdisciplinary approach in our centre.

The work on our maxillofacial ward is varied and exciting, as every day offers new challenges and learning opportunities. It is a professionally demanding environment in which teamwork and expertise take centre stage.