Head and neck cancers encompass diverse malignancies affecting the oral cavity, throat, salivary glands, thyroid, skin, and jaw. The Advanced Head and Neck, Cranial/Orbital/Maxillofacial Surgery Program at Scripps Prebys Cancer Center provides specialized surgical expertise in treating all types of head and neck cancer with precision-driven techniques and multidisciplinary care.
Understanding Head and Neck Cancer Types
Head and neck cancers represent approximately 4% of all cancers and require specialized surgical expertise. Early detection and comprehensive treatment significantly improve outcomes and preserve function.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common head and neck cancer, accounting for 90% of cases. It develops in the thin, flat cells lining the mouth, tongue, oropharynx, and larynx. Oral cavity SCC affects the tongue, lips, gums, and floor of mouth. Oropharyngeal SCC involves the soft palate, base of tongue, and throat. Laryngeal SCC affects the voice box. Risk factors include tobacco and alcohol use. Our surgical team specializes in precise tumor removal while preserving speech and swallowing function.
HPV-Mediated Throat Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes an increasing proportion of oropharyngeal cancers, particularly affecting the base of tongue and tonsils. HPV-positive cancers often present differently and may respond better to treatment. These cancers can occur without traditional risk factors like smoking or drinking.
Salivary Gland Cancer
Salivary gland cancers arise in the parotid gland (largest salivary gland in front of the ear), submandibular gland (under the jaw), or minor salivary glands throughout the mouth and throat. These tumors vary in aggressiveness. Treatment typically involves surgical removal while carefully preserving facial nerve function.
Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck
Skin cancers commonly affect the face, scalp, and neck. Squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma are most frequent, while melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma are more aggressive. Our surgeons perform precise removal with attention to cosmetic outcomes and reconstruction when needed.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer includes papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic types. Most thyroid cancers have excellent prognosis when treated appropriately. Surgical treatment involves partial or complete thyroid removal, often with lymph node dissection.
Jaw and Bone Cancers
Jaw cancers include osteosarcoma, ameloblastoma, and other malignancies affecting the mandible, maxilla, and skull base. These complex tumors require specialized surgical expertise and often benefit from advanced reconstruction techniques.
Comprehensive Surgical Care
Dr. Ravi Garg and our surgical team at the Advanced Head and Neck, Cranial/Orbital/Maxillofacial Surgery Program utilize state-of-the-art techniques including virtual surgical planning, minimally invasive approaches, and advanced reconstruction to achieve optimal functional and cosmetic outcomes. We coordinate care with medical oncology, radiation oncology, and other specialists to provide comprehensive cancer treatment. If you've been diagnosed with head and neck cancer, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options.