Head & Neck Cancer
At OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, we take a personalized approach to head and neck cancer treatment. We know your needs, your wishes and the cancer you’re fighting are unique, so we create a customized cancer treatment plan just for you.
Our head and neck cancer specialists treats all types of head and neck cancer, including the most advanced and complex cancers.
About Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancer can occur in many different areas, including:
- Mouth, throat and larynx (voice box)
- Nose and sinuses
- Salivary and thyroid glands
- Skin of the head, neck and face
Symptoms of head and neck cancer can include a lump or sore, a sore throat that does not get better, trouble swallowing or a hoarse voice. Oral cancer and other head and neck cancers can be caused by the Human Papillomavirus or HPV which can be detected early with cancer screenings at OHSU. Many head and neck cancers are curable if they are found and treated early.
Head and Neck Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment options for head and neck cancer include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Many head and neck cancers can be cured with surgery or radiation alone if they are found early.
Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer
Surgery is usually the first treatment for skin, mouth, salivary gland and thyroid cancers.
Depending on your personalized cancer treatment plan, you might have chemotherapy before or after surgery. You might also have radiation therapy for this type of cancer.
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute’s head and neck surgeons are experts in the latest minimally invasive techniques. We also have experienced plastic surgeons to help with reconstructive surgery if necessary.
Learn more about surgery for head and neck cancer
Radiation for Head and Neck Cancer
Some head and neck cancers are treated with radiation alone. You might also have radiation with chemotherapy or after your surgery. OHSU Knight Cancer Institute has Oregon’s most advanced radiation therapy technology for treating head and neck cancers. We offer a variety of state-of-the-art, precise radiation therapy technologies that can pinpoint target various types of head and neck cancers.
Learn more about radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
Chemotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Chemotherapy can be given before or after surgery, sometimes with radiation. In some cases, chemotherapy and radiation are used instead of surgery, especially when this treatment helps preserve the ability to speak or swallow normally. Our head and neck cancer specialists are leading the way in chemotherapy research and treatments and will develop a personalized treatment plan for each individual.
Learn more about chemotherapy for head and neck cancer
Our Team
The head and neck cancer specialists at OHSU Knight Cancer Institute have dedicated their lives to treating head and neck cancers. Our team includes head and neck cancer surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists and other specialists.
Our head and neck doctors and nurses work with OHSU’s specialized dental, speech, hearing and nutrition teams to create your personalized treatment plan. The team meets every week to discuss your treatment, giving you the benefit of everyone’s knowledge and expertise.
