Head and neck cancer
Head and neck cancers develop in the mouth, throat, sinuses or nose. They may be treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery. Reconstructive surgery may also be used to improve function and appearance.
Head and neck cancer specialists in Metro Denver
We offer very advanced treatments and a cancer center dedicated entirely to head and neck cancers.
At HCA HealthONE, our specialists in the Rocky Mountain Region offer a multidisciplinary, compassionate approach to your care. We personalize treatment plans to fit your needs and use innovative methods, such as Y-90 radioembolization, to treat both rare and common head and neck cancers.
Expert advice, available 24/7
Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Types of head and neck cancers we treat
Our ENT oncologists are experienced in treating both common and rare head and neck cancers, including:
- Laryngeal cancer
- Malignant melanoma
- Oral cavity tumors
- Oral cavity cancer
- Oropharyngeal cancer
- Parathyroid cancer
- Pharyngeal (throat) cancer
- Salivary gland tumors
- Thyroid cancer
About our head and neck cancer program
We offer comprehensive medical care and leading surgical techniques to treat head and neck cancers.
Head and neck cancer risk factors
Tobacco use is the most preventable cause of death from head and neck cancer. This includes not only smoking but also using smokeless tobacco or spit tobacco.
E-cigarettes and vaping products might also pose health risks and shouldn't be considered a safe alternative to smoking. Alcohol is another common cause of cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box and tongue.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many cancers of the tonsils, tongue and back of the mouth are linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S. The CDC also states that the HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that can cause oropharyngeal cancers, so it might also prevent these cancers.
Symptoms of head and neck cancer
Head and neck cancers usually begin in the cells that line the surfaces of your mouth, throat and voice box. Early detection is key to treating these types of cancer successfully.
Although symptoms can vary according to the type of cancer, the following symptoms are the most common.
Bleeding
In some cases, bleeding in your mouth is caused by tumors in your nose, mouth, throat or lungs.
Changes in your skin
Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of head and neck cancer. However, this type of cancer is rarely serious if diagnosed and treated early.
Skin cancers, such as Basal cell skin cancer, can start as a small, pale patch on your skin that slowly enlarges over time.
Difficulty swallowing
Cancers that begin in the throat or esophagus can make it difficult to swallow. If have a problem swallowing every time you try to eat, schedule an appointment to see a doctor.
Earache that doesn't go away
Persistent earaches can be a sign of tumor growth or an infection in your throat. Visit an ear, nose and throat specialist if a persistent earache is accompanied by painful swallowing, hoarseness or a lump in your neck.
Growth in your mouth
A sore in your mouth or swelling in your tongue could be a sign of cancer. These sores might be painless but could still signify a tumor or cancer. If you have an ulcer or swelling in your mouth or tongue that persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to consult a physician.
Lump in your neck
Typically, cancers that are first present in the head or neck travel to the lymph nodes in your neck before spreading to other parts of the body. A lump in your neck might be the first sign of cancer in the mouth, throat, larynx, thyroid gland or salivary glands. See a doctor as soon as possible if a lump in your neck remains for two weeks or more.
Voice changes
The majority of cancers that develop in your voice box cause a change in your voice. Most voice changes aren't caused by cancer, but if you're hoarse or your voice changes persist for more than two weeks, you need to see a doctor.
Head and neck cancer services
Our cancer specialists offer comprehensive treatment options tailored to your individual situation. We prioritize doing whatever we can to help you on your health journey.
Our head and neck cancer services include the following:
- 3D imaging
- Advanced microscopes
- Intraoperative imaging
- Laser
- Navigation systems
- Robotic surgical systems
- Tissue biopsy and pathology
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