Department of Radiation Oncology
Head & Neck Cancer
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Specialized Physicians: Head & Neck Cancers – Mitchell Machtay, M.D. – Pramila Rani Anne, M.D. – Tithi Biswas, M.B.B.S., M.D. |
Cancers may arise from many locations within the head and neck regions such as the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, tongue, tonsils, salivary glands, throat, or larynx (voice box). Patients with a history of heavy smoking and alcohol use are at higher risk for developing these cancers. These tumors often cause symptoms such as pain, growing neck mass, shortness of breath, weight loss, hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, difficulty opening the mouth and others.
The treatment of brain tumors is highly individualized – depending on tumor type, location and size. Depending on the tumor, treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or oftentimes, a combination of all three. At Jefferson we pride ourselves on a strong interdisciplinary clinic staffed by Radiation Oncologists, Ear Nose and Throat surgeons and Medical Oncologists. Our resources include state of the art technology such as on-board cone beam CT, adaptive replanning during treatment, deformable registration for treatment planning. Jefferson physicians have pioneered the development of IMRT and IGRT radiation therapy, aiming to maximize treatment while minimize side effects. Our physicians are national leaders who combine experience and tools to deliver optimal care to our patients.
Furthermore Jefferson has an active clinical trials program. When appropriate, patients are given the opportunity to participate in national and institutional research studies that integrate new drugs and treatment approaches to continue to improve our success in treating brain tumors. Some trials are available only at Jefferson – please inquire to what trials are currently available!
For more information: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/head-and-neck/
