Head and Neck Oncology
The Head and Neck Oncology Department at Burjeel Cancer Institute provides comprehensive care for patients with cancers affecting the head and neck region. Our team of oncologists, ENT specialists, and surgeons offers advanced treatment options for cancers of the oral cavity, throat, larynx, salivary glands, thyroid, and other structures in the head and neck. We take a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy with the latest reconstructive techniques to ensure the best outcomes while preserving function and appearance.
Conditions We Treat
We provide care for a wide range of head and neck cancers, including:
- Oral cavity cancer (tongue, lips, gums, floor of the mouth) Throat Cancer (pharyngeal cancer, oropharyngeal cancer)
- Laryngeal Cancer (voice box)
- Salivary Gland Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Nasopharyngeal Cancer (cancer behind the nose)
- Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancers
- Ear and Temporal Bone Cancers
- Skin Cancers of the Head and Neck (melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma)
- Metastatic Cancer to the Neck
- Other Rare Head and Neck Tumors
Treatment Options
Our head and neck oncology team offers a variety of advanced treatments tailored to each patient's specific condition:
Surgical Oncology
We perform minimally invasive and complex surgeries to remove tumors while preserving as much healthy tissue and function as possible. Surgical options including Resection of oral and throat tumors , Thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland for thyroid cancer) , Laryngectomy (partial or total removal of the voice box) , Neck dissection (removal of lymph nodes and tissue affected by cancer) , Endoscopic sinus surgery for tumors in the nasal cavity and sinuses
Radiation Therapy
We use highly targeted radiation to treat head and neck cancers, often in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. Techniques including Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) which focuses on high-precision radiation on the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues and Brachytherapy.
Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy
Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy. We also offer targeted therapy drugs that attack specific proteins driving cancer growth, particularly in cases of recurrent or advanced cancers.
Immunotherapy
This treatment boosts the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells, particularly effective in certain types of head and neck cancers.
Reconstructive Surgery
After tumor removal, we offer reconstructive surgery to restore the appearance and function of affected areas, including microvascular free flap reconstruction.
Our Approach to Treatment
We take a multidisciplinary approach to head and neck cancer care, focusing on personalized treatment and comprehensive support:
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Our team of ENT specialists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and reconstructive specialists work together to provide a comprehensive, integrated approach to treatment.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient's specific type and stage of cancer, with a focus on preserving speech, swallowing, and appearance whenever possible.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Whenever feasible, we use minimally invasive surgery and radiation techniques to minimize scarring and recovery time, while maintaining the effectiveness of treatment.
Focus on Quality of Life
In addition to treating cancer, we focus on maintaining the patient's quality of life, including addressing issues related to speech, swallowing, and appearance during and after treatment.
Diagnostic and Monitoring Tools
We use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose and stage head and neck cancers:
Endoscopy
Allows visualization of the upper airways and digestive tract, helping to diagnose tumors in the throat, larynx, and nasal cavity.
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
A minimally invasive procedure used to biopsy lumps or masses in the head and neck, particularly in the thyroid or lymph nodes.
CT and MRI Scans
Detailed imaging used to assess the size, location, and spread of tumors in the head and neck region.
PET-CT Scans
Used to detect cancerous activity, assess the spread of cancer, and monitor the response to treatment.
Ultrasound
Commonly used to evaluate thyroid nodules or masses in the neck, often guiding biopsies.
Supportive Care and Patient Services
In addition to medical treatment, we offer a range of supportive care services designed to improve quality of life during and after treatment:
Speech and Swallowing Therapy
Rehabilitation services to help patients regain speech and swallowing function after surgery or radiation therapy.
Nutritional Support
Tailored nutrition plans to help patients maintain weight and manage difficulty eating during treatment, particularly in cases of oral and throat cancers.
Palliative Care
Symptom management and supportive care for patients with advanced cancer, focusing on relieving pain and improving quality of life.
Pain Management
Specialized pain management services to address discomfort caused by surgery, radiation therapy, or cancer itself.
Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive procedures to restore form and function after tumor removal, including microvascular and free flap reconstruction techniques.
Psychosocial Support
Counseling and emotional support for patients and families dealing with the challenges of a head and neck cancer diagnosis.
Advanced Head and Neck Oncology Techniques
We use the latest techniques and technologies to provide the best possible outcomes for our head and neck cancer patients:
Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery
Allows for the reconstruction of large defects after tumor removal, using tissue from other parts of the body to restore appearance and function.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery that allows for precise tumor removal in hard-to-reach areas of the head and neck, with smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
A highly targeted radiation therapy that minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue, improving outcomes and reducing side effects.
Endoscopic Laser Surgery
A minimally invasive technique used to remove early-stage tumors in the throat or larynx with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Patient Journey
Our head and neck oncology patients receive expert care and support throughout their treatment journey:
Initial Consultation
A thorough assessment by an ENT specialist or oncologist, including diagnostic imaging, endoscopy, and biopsy to diagnose the type and stage of cancer.
Treatment Planning
A personalized treatment plan is developed, which may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
Surgery and Treatment:
Tumors are removed using advanced surgical techniques, often combined with radiation therapy or chemotherapy to ensure the best outcomes.
Rehabilitation and Support
Patients receive speech and swallowing therapy, nutritional support, and other services to aid in recovery and maintain quality of life.
Long-Term Follow-Up
Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care to detect any recurrence and manage long-term effects of treatment.
