Tonsil Cancer

Treatment

Early stage tonsil cancer can often be treated with surgery or radiation. Later stage cancers may require a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. A multidisciplinary team of Mayo physicians develop a unique treatment plan for each cancer patient.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is one option to manage many tonsil cancers. The surgery performed to treat tonsil cancer depends on the size, type, location, and depth of the tumor spread. If the tumor has spread beyond the tonsils, nearby lymph nodes may be removed and examined in a laboratory. Very small cancers that have not spread beyond the tonsil may be treated with surgery alone.

Usually the cancer can be removed through the mouth using the laser, or other specialized endoscopic techniques. Mayo Clinic's surgeons are exploring the use of robotic surgery for many tumors in this area. The treatment of metastatic neck nodes is done via an external neck incision. Pathologic information can be helpful in appropriately directing additional therapy.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays, electron beams, or radioactive isotopes to kill cancer cells. Radiation oncologists at Mayo Clinic tailor each treatment to protect nearby normal tissue. Cancers that have spread can sometimes be treated with radiation therapy or a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. That approach can help patients avoid radical surgery that may result in disfigurement and loss of function (speech and swallowing).

Mayo Clinic patients have access to the most advanced systems for treatment planning and delivery. One such system is intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). IMRT uses digital diagnostic imaging, computers, and specialized software to conform hundreds of small radiation beams to the shape of the tumor. This system enables precise dosage distribution that protects nearby normal tissue.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. To treat a malignant tumor on a tonsil, Mayo medical oncologists may give a patient chemotherapy by mouth or inject it into a vein.

Reconstructive Surgery

Depending upon the size, location, and spread of the cancer, reconstructive surgery may be necessary after surgery to remove the cancer. Experienced Mayo Clinic plastic surgeons, otorhinolaryngologists, and oral and maxillofacial surgeons can restore the physical appearance and usability of the mouth. The team provides individualized care to meet the needs of each patient.

Rehabilitation

When rehabilitation is necessary after treatment, patients can get help from speech therapists, swallowing therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. The Nicotine Dependence Center at Mayo Clinic can help patients who want to stop using tobacco.