Explore Cancer & Blood DisordersHead and Neck Cancers
What Are Head & Neck Cancers?
At the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, we provide state-of-the-art care for patients diagnosed with head and neck cancers. Head and neck cancers are cancers of the mouth, tongue, larynx, pharynx, nasal cavities, and salivary glands, and they affect tens of thousands of Americans every year.
Most head and neck cancers can be cured, especially if they are found early. Treatment varies according to the type, location, and extent of the cancer and often includes a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
The Head and Neck Cancer Program has a variety of dedicated medical professionals, including head and neck surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nutritionists, and social workers. Specialists in neurologic surgery, prosthodontics, plastic surgery, oculoplastic surgery, and dermatologic surgery also assist as necessary. These specialists tailor treatment plans to their patient's needs, taking into account the type of cancer, the individual's age, the degree to which cancer has spread, and the patient's overall health. The program also includes renowned cancer researchers who are leading programs to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer.
Services
- Head and Neck Surgery: including reconstruction of the oral cavity, pharyngeal or laryngeal cancer treatment, craniofacial resections for nasal and sinus cavities, neck dissection, and Mohs surgery for skin cancer
- Radiation Therapy: including TomoTherapy with state-of-the-art Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), brachytherapy (radiation implants), stereotactic radiosurgery and radiotherapy, and linear accelerator-based radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy: including neoadjuvant (induction) chemotherapy, concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, clinical trials, and chemotherapy with and without radiotherapy
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: including local or regional pedicled flaps and microvascular free tissue transfer (free flaps)
- Rehabilitative Services: including speech and swallowing therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy
- Medical Nutritional Therapy
- Social Services
What To Expect During Your Appointment
Head and neck cancer patients are typically examined by various practitioners during their initial visit, depending upon what kind of cancer is suspected. The team then discusses various treatment options and returns to the with its recommendations. This multidisciplinary approach facilitates initial treatment planning and allows the patient and family to be presented with a choice of treatment options, if available. In addition to optimizing the coordination of standard therapies, this approach also helps ensure a patient's access to the latest clinical trials and protocols. Reports summarizing findings and recommendations are sent quickly to referring physicians, dentists, and primary care physicians.
Nurse Navigator
Tori-Lynn Pacelle, BSN, RN
Bile Duct, Brain, Colon, Endocrine Neoplasia, Gallbladder, Head and Neck, Liver, Pancreatic, Rectal, Gastric
Phone: 860-466-9760
Email: pacelle@uchc.edu
Fax: 860-676-3434
Nurse Navigators are here to help you through your entire health journey, diagnosis through treatment.