Head & Neck Surgery

Head and Neck Surgery refers to procedures involving many structures, such as the thyroid gland, salivary glands, larynx. It encompasses many diseases, such as cancer (lips, mouth, throat, sinuses, neck lymph nodes, larynx, thyroid, etc) as well as many benign processes.

These processes may affect speaking, chewing and swallowing, all vitally important functions in our day-to-day lives.

The Head and Neck Surgery division is led by Dr. Ryan Osborne who has trained extensively in head and neck oncology with pioneers such as Paul Donald M.D., F.R.C.S., Jimmy Brown, M.D., D.D.S., Thomas Calcaterra, M.D. and Dr. Wolfgang Steiner of the University of Göttingen, Germany. Please see Dr. Osborne’s bio for further details.

The primary focus of all the members of this division is the comprehensive management of benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck. Other special areas of interest include treatment of recurrent cancers, the minimally-invasive laser tumor resection, endoscopic skull base surgery, minimally invasive parathyroid and thyroid surgery, as well as diseases of the larynx, pharynx, and esophagus such as Zenker’s Diverticulum.

Cancer Statistics

Head and Neck cancer accounts for 3-5% of all cancers in the United States.

It is more common in individuals over age 50, and three times more common in men than women. It most commonly occurs in patients who smoke and drink and thus can be easily prevented by basic lifestyle changes. In recent years, however there have been head and neck cancers diagnosed in non-smokers and non-drinkers. There have also been recent associations noted with the human papilloma virus (HPV). As with other cancers, early diagnosis and prompt treatment improves survivability.

Risk Factors

• Chronic smoking
• Chronic alcohol consumption
• Poor oral hygiene
• Occupational hazards – wood dust inhalation and nickel exposure
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Chronic sun exposure (lip and skin cancers)

What are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer?

• A sore that does not heal or a growth in the mouth or the tongue that persists for longer than 2 weeks
• A lump or swelling in the head, neck or side of the face.
• Nasal problems such as bloody discharge, obstruction or chronic sinus congestion
• Blood in saliva for many days
• Painful swallowing or breathing.
• Changes in the voice that persist beyond 2 weeks
• An earache when there is no ear infection, especially if associated with painful swallowing

Early Detection and Diagnosis

The initial step is a complete physical examination by an Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeon. Many initial lesions may be noted and are often biopsied by dentists. Additionally, blood tests, imaging – CT and MRI scans are used to determine extent of disease. Endoscopies (laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy and esophagoscopy) and biopsies are used to provide definitive diagnoses.

Treatment

A comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to head and neck cancer is often warranted. Surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy may be used along with reconstructive surgery and good nutrition to help maintain and/or optimize breathing, swallowing and speech.

Specialized Procedures:

Removal of most head and neck cancers may initially alter form and function. Given the visibility of the head and neck, to minimize visible scars, OHNI physicians are accessing tumors via small incisions and endoscopes. This decreases pain and facilitating quicker healing and earlier return to normal activities. Some of these minimally-invasive procedures include:

• Minimally-Invasive Laser Tumor Resection
• Minimally Invasive Parathyroid Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Parotid Surgery
• Endoscopic Video-Assisted Thyroid Surgery
• Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery

Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Minimally-Invasive Laser Tumor Resection
• Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery
• Minimally-Invasive Parathyroid Surgery
• Minimally-Invasive Parotid Surgery
• Endoscopic Video Assisted Thyroid Surgery

If you are interested in learning more about the services offered at the Head and Neck Center at OHNI, please call us today to schedule an appointment.