Head & Neck Cancer Surgery

Any form of Cancer can be frightening and life changing. It is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. It can start almost anywhere in the body! 

Normally, human cells grow and multiply to form new cells as the body needs them. When the cells grow old or become damaged, they die and new cells take their place. But cancer cells cause the body to multiply cells when they shouldnt and form a group of cells called tumors. 

Cancers in the Head and Neck

Many cancers of the head and neck can be cured, especially if they are found early. Although eliminating the cancer is the primary goal of treatment, preserving the function of the nearby nerves, organs, and tissues is also very important. When planning treatment, our providers consider how treatment might affect a person’s quality of life, such as how a person feels, looks, talks, eats, and breathes.

The common types of treatments used for head and neck cancer are described below. Your care plan may also include treatment for symptoms and side effects, an important part of cancer care.

Overall, the main treatment options are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surger or radiation therapy by themselves or a combination of these treatments may be part of the treatment plan. 

Treatment options and recommendations depend on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, possible side effects, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. 

Surgical Options:

• Laser Technology. This may be used to treat an early-stage tumor, espeically if it is found in the larynx.
• Excision. This is an operation to remove the cancerous tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue, known as a margin.
• Lymph Node dissection. If our provider suspects the cancer has spread, they may remove the lymph nodes in the neck. This may be done at the same time as an excision.
• Reconstructive Surgery. If cancer surgery requires major tissue removal, such as removing the jaw, skin, pharynx, or tongue, reconstructive or plastic surgery may be done to replace the missing tissue. This type of operation helps restore a person’s appearance and the function of the affected area. 

Depending on the location, stage, and type of cancer, some people may need more than 1 operation. Sometimes, it is not possible to completely remove the cancer, and additional treatments may be necessary.