Head & Neck Cancer
Head & Neck Cancer Services
At Spokane ENT, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment of head and neck cancers, including cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), nasal cavity, sinuses, salivary glands, and other structures in the head and neck region. These cancers can present with various symptoms including persistent sores, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, neck masses, or unexplained pain. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, but we also treat adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, and other rare histologic types. Our team specializes in the diagnosis, staging, and multidisciplinary management of head and neck cancers, working closely with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive, coordinated care.
We utilize advanced diagnostic techniques to evaluate head and neck cancers, including detailed history taking to assess symptoms, risk factors, and medical history. Our evaluation includes comprehensive physical examination with careful inspection of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx using specialized instruments. We perform imaging studies including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans to accurately stage the cancer and assess tumor extent, involvement of adjacent structures, and presence of regional or distant metastases. We perform biopsies to obtain tissue samples for pathological analysis, which is essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the cancer type and grade. Our team coordinates with pathologists and radiologists to ensure accurate staging, which guides treatment planning.
Our treatment approach for head and neck cancers is individualized based on tumor type, location, stage, and patient factors. We utilize a multidisciplinary approach, working closely with medical oncologists and radiation oncologists to develop comprehensive treatment plans. Surgical options may include transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for select tumors, which allows for removal through the mouth without external incisions. For more extensive tumors, we perform open surgical procedures including partial or total laryngectomy, pharyngectomy, or composite resections. When necessary, we perform neck dissection to remove lymph nodes that may contain cancer. For complex cases requiring reconstruction, we offer microvascular reconstruction using tissue from other parts of the body to restore form and function. We also utilize modern techniques including intraoperative nerve monitoring and careful preservation of critical structures when possible. Following surgery, we coordinate with radiation oncology and medical oncology teams for adjuvant therapy when indicated. Our goal is to provide effective cancer treatment while maximizing functional outcomes and quality of life. We provide comprehensive postoperative care, rehabilitation services, and ongoing surveillance to monitor for recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Head and neck cancers affect the mouth, throat, voice box, sinuses, salivary glands, or thyroid. They are often related to tobacco, alcohol, or HPV. Early detection improves outcomes.
Treatment may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination. Spokane ENT surgeons work with oncologists and participate in tumor boards to create individualized plans.
Symptoms may include a persistent sore throat, swallowing difficulty, hoarseness, a lump in the neck, mouth sores that don't heal, or unexplained weight loss. See an ENT for evaluation.
A tumor board is a multidisciplinary team (surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, pathologists, etc.) that reviews cases and recommends the best treatment plan for each patient.
See an ENT for any new neck lump that persists more than 2 weeks, especially if you have throat symptoms, smoking history, or are over 40. Evaluation may include imaging and biopsy.