Head and Neck Cancer Program
Program Leader:
The Head and Neck Oncology Program provides comprehensive treatment of cancers of the head and neck region. These include tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, lips, nose, paranasal sinuses, esophagus, salivary glands, neck, ears, temporal bone, and skull-base.
The program offers patient-centered care from a diverse, highly-skilled multidisciplinary team. We provide diagnostic services, cancer therapy, rehabilitation services, and help patients and their families in confronting the challenges of their treatment decisions. We also offer support information and multimedia presentations through the Health Education Center at DHMC.
Following a comprehensive evaluation of the patient, each case is discussed with a team of specialists, and an individualized treatment plan is formulated. The cancer therapy provided is based on state-of-the-art diagnostic assessment with both imaging and non-imaging techniques. The range of treatment options includes advanced oncologic surgery with microvascular reconstruction, radiation therapy, brachytherapy and chemotherapy.
Special Services and Diagnostic Tests
- Routine and advanced diagnostic and interventional imaging
- Head and neck endoscopy and biopsy
- Image-guided endoscopic surgery
- Advanced ablative surgical techniques, including skull base surgery
- Reconstructive facial plastic surgery and microvascular surgery
- Saliva-sparing surgery
- Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
- Radiation implant therapy
- Speech and swallowing therapy
- Hearing rehabilitation
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Adjunctive evaluation of the special senses
- Nursing and Social Work evaluation
- Patient and family support group
Research Interests
- RTOG phase II and III clinical trials
- Organ-sparing therapy protocols
- Re-irradiation protocols
- Adjuvant therapy for high-risk patients
- New chemotherapeutic strategies for recurrent tumors
- Chemoprevention therapy
- Palliative therapy
