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The Division of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology treats all complex surgical disorders of the head and neck, including:
Upper aerodigestive tract neoplasms
The upper aerodigestive tract is subdivided into several sites. These are the oral cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx (all part of the pharynx, or throat) and the larynx, or voice box.
A variety of benign and malignant tumors may occur in these portions of the throat, causing symptoms such as difficulty or pain with swallowing, voice change, weight loss, ear pain or coughing up blood. The risk factors for cancer in these areas are long-term tobacco and alcohol use. People with these risk factors who experience cancer symptoms should seek a complete head and neck evaluation.
Salivary gland neoplasms
The salivary glands include the parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands, as well as numerous minor glands located throughout the upper aerodigestive tract (the throat). A salivary gland tumor may be malignant or benign. This type of tumor typically presents as a slow-growing, non-tender lump on the side of the face in front of the ear, at the angle of the jaw or in the oral cavity.
Skin Cancers
Skin cancer frequently occurs in the head and neck. These growths often appear as non-healing ulcers on the scalp, ears or lips. Generally, larger lesions or lesions that involve the nose or ear are managed by head and neck surgical oncologists, particularly when skin reconstruction is necessary.
There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Each type has its own unique pattern of spread and behavior and requires tailored treatment.
Head and Neck Cancer Physicians:
Jack Gluckman, MD
Yash Patil, MD
Keith Wilson, MD
Lee Zimmer, MD, PhD
For additional information:
Skin Cancer Foundation
National Tobacco Cessation Collaborative
Oral Cancer Foundation
National Cancer Institute
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