Head & Neck Cancer Surgery

Indications for Head and Neck Cancer Surgery

Cancer: Surgical treatment for cancers of the head and neck, including oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, and salivary glands. This may involve tumor removal, reconstructive surgery, and lymph node dissection.

Trauma: Repairing injuries to facial structures, including fractures of the jaw, nose, and orbital bones.

Benign Tumors: Removing non-cancerous tumors or cysts in areas such as the salivary glands, thyroid gland, or sinuses.

Functional Disorders: Addressing conditions affecting swallowing, breathing, and speech, such as chronic sinusitis, obstructive sleep apnea, and vocal cord disorders.

Cosmetic Concerns: Reconstructive and aesthetic procedures to address congenital deformities or acquired deformities due to trauma or disease.

Head and neck surgery can significantly improve quality of life by treating disease, injury, or functional disorders. While the procedures can be complex and involve a range of potential complications, many patients experience substantial benefits, including improved health, restored function, and enhanced appearance. With appropriate preoperative planning, skilled surgical techniques, and thorough postoperative care, the outcomes can be highly favorable, allowing patients to return to their daily activities and improve their overall well-being.

The Procedure

Preparation: Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Preoperative assessments, including imaging studies (CT, MRI) and biopsies, are conducted to plan the procedure and evaluate the extent of the disease or injury.

Surgical Process: The specific technique used depends on the condition being treated. For example, cancer surgery may involve extensive tumor removal and reconstructive techniques, while trauma surgery may focus on realigning and stabilizing fractures.

Techniques: Advances in minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery, are increasingly used to reduce recovery times and improve outcomes.



Head and neck surgery involves a range of procedures aimed at treating conditions affecting the head, neck, and associated structures. This includes surgeries for cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and salivary glands, as well as corrective procedures for trauma, benign tumors, and functional disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea. Common surgeries include thyroidectomy for thyroid issues, salivary gland removal, and various reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. The process typically involves preoperative imaging and assessment, followed by surgery under general anesthesia. Postoperative care includes managing pain, monitoring for complications, and possibly undergoing rehabilitation for speech, swallowing, or cosmetic concerns. While risks include infection, bleeding, and functional changes, many patients experience significant improvements in health and quality of life with proper care and follow-up.