Head and Neck Cancer Surgery

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that originate in the tissues of the head and neck region, including the oral cavity (mouth), throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), nasal cavity, sinuses, salivary glands, and thyroid gland. These cancers can arise from various cell types within these tissues and can have different characteristics, treatments, and prognoses.

Here are some key points about head and neck cancer:

1. Types of Head and Neck Cancer:

   • Oral Cavity Cancer: This includes cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, inner lining of the cheeks, floor of the mouth, and hard palate.
   • Pharyngeal Cancer: This involves cancers of the throat, including the nasopharynx (upper part of the throat behind the nose), oropharynx (middle part of the throat behind the mouth), and hypopharynx (lower part of the throat).
   • Laryngeal Cancer: This refers to cancers of the voice box (larynx), including the vocal cords.
   • Nasal and Sinus Cancer: These cancers develop in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.
   • Salivary Gland Cancer: This includes cancers arising from the salivary glands, which produce saliva.
   • Thyroid Cancer: Thyroid cancer originates in the thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck.

Symptoms:

• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness.
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing.
• A lump or sore that does not heal.
• Persistent nasal congestion or nosebleeds (for nasal and sinus cancer).
• Changes in voice or breathing (for laryngeal cancer).
• Swelling or pain in the neck (enlarged lymph nodes).
• Persistent ear pain.
• Unexplained weight loss.

Early detection and prompt treatment are essential for improving outcomes in head and neck cancer. Regular dental check-ups and screenings can help in the early detection of oral cancers, while lifestyle modifications (such as tobacco cessation and limiting alcohol consumption) can reduce the risk of developing these cancers.