Tonsil Cancer

Overview

Experienced specialists offer thorough and advanced treatment of tonsil (oropharynx) cancer, including robotic surgery. Teams of otorhinolaryngologists (ear, nose and throat specialists), oral and maxillofacial surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists work together to develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient with tonsil cancer. Tonsil cancer patients also have access to the resources of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center dedicated to advancing cancer care.

Mayo Clinic in Minnesota is one of the few medical centers in the United States with extensive experience in treating tonsil cancer with minimally invasive robotic surgery. Mayo surgeons have developed a robotic surgical approach to tumor removal that offers better access to tonsil tumors, fewer adverse side effects and improves patients' quality of life after surgery.

Early stage tonsil cancer can often be treated with surgery or radiation. Later stage cancers may require a combination of radiation, chemotherapy and surgery. Mayo's head and neck surgeons use minimally invasive transoral (through the mouth) techniques for most cancers. Transoral robotic surgery is an option in many cases. Read more about tonsil cancer treatment.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Tonsil Cancer

More than 8,000 people are diagnosed with oral and throat (oropharynx) cancer annually in the United States. Tonsil cancer is considered the most common cancer of the oropharynx region, which also includes the soft palate and base of the tongue. More men than women are diagnosed with tonsil cancer. Heavy use of nicotine and alcohol may increase the risk of developing tonsil cancer.

Read more about tonsil cancer at MayoClinic.com.