Head and Neck Cancer

Overview

At Mayo Clinic, head and neck cancer patients have access to experienced specialists and the latest treatments, such as robotic surgery for tumor removal. A team of Mayo Clinic doctors from various specialties work together to diagnose and treat patients with head and neck cancers. Those specialists can include neurologists, neurosurgeons, otorhinolaryngolygists, ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons, endocrinologists, oral surgeons, radiation oncologists and others. Treatment teams take the time to thoroughly understand each patient's health concerns and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs.

Head and neck cancers are usually treated with surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy also may be used for certain tumor types or extensive tumors. Noncancerous (benign) tumors are generally treated with surgery alone.

At Mayo Clinic, head and neck cancer treatment is promptly followed by a personalized rehabilitation plan to help promote recovery and ensure an enhanced quality of life. Rehabilitation requires the expertise of a team of specialists that include dentists, prosthodontists, nurses, speech pathologists and physical therapists.

The medical team closely oversees each patient's care following treatment to monitor for cancer recurrence, a potential risk for head and neck cancer patients.

Learn more about the treatment of these head and neck cancers:

• Ameloblastoma
• Craniopharyngioma
• Esthesioneuroblastoma
• Floor of mouth cancer
• Lip cancer
• Nasal and paranasal tumors
• Salivary gland tumors
• Soft palate cancer
• Throat cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Tongue cancer
• Tonsil cancer

About Head and Neck Cancer

More than 60,000 Americans are diagnosed annually with head and neck cancer. Heavy use of nicotine and alcohol may increase the risk of developing these cancers. Head and neck cancers can disfigure the face and neck, and impact speech, sight, the ability to swallow, and the sense of smell.