Head and Neck Cancer Care at Baptist Health Care
Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosis
At Baptist Health Care, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions affecting the head, neck, mouth, throat, glands and sinuses. Our team of specialists is experienced in managing both noncancerous and cancerous conditions, including complex tumors and endocrine disorders like thyroid and parathyroid disease.
We take a personalized approach to care, combining advanced technology with minimally invasive techniques to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients. Collaboration across specialties—including surgical oncology, radiation oncology and endocrinology—ensures that every treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs.
Conditions We Treat Include:
- Oral Cavity Cancer
Involves areas such as the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue and roof of the mouth. Early detection is key to effective treatment and better outcomes. -
Oropharyngeal Cancer
Affects the middle part of the throat, which plays a role in swallowing, saliva production and digestion. -
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Begins in the upper throat behind the nose. Though rare in the U.S., it requires specialized care due to its location and complexity. -
Laryngeal Cancer
Develops in the voice box and can impact speech, breathing and swallowing. -
Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Found in the lower throat behind the voice box, this cancer can interfere with essential functions like swallowing and speaking. -
Nasal and Sinus Cancers
Originate in the nasal cavity or surrounding sinuses and may affect breathing and sinus health. -
Salivary Gland Tumors
Can be benign or malignant and affect glands responsible for producing saliva, which aids in digestion and oral health. -
Parathyroid Cancer
A rare cancer of the parathyroid glands, which help regulate calcium levels in the body. Benign tumors are more common but still require careful evaluation.
At Baptist Health Care, we’re committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for patients facing head and neck conditions. From diagnosis to recovery, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Head and Neck Cancer Surgery at Baptist Health Care
At Baptist Health Care, our surgical team offers advanced procedures to treat cancers of the oral cavity, throat, nasal passages, sinuses, and salivary glands. We focus on precision, safety, and restoring quality of life—often combining surgery with other therapies to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Oral Cancer Surgery
Surgery is often the first step in treating mouth and throat cancers, especially when caught early. Depending on the location and stage, our surgeons may perform targeted procedures to remove the tumor. In many cases, reconstructive surgery is performed to restore appearance and function, helping patients speak, eat and smile with confidence.
Nasal Cavity Cancer Surgery
To treat cancers in the nasal cavity, our surgeons perform a procedure called wide local excision—removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure no cancer cells remain. If the tumor involves the nasal septum, more extensive removal may be necessary to achieve clear margins.
Sinus Cancer Surgery
Cancers in the sinuses often require a combination of surgery and other treatments. Our team may remove the tumor along with nearby bone or tissue. Other treatments could include radiation or chemotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Salivary Gland Tumor Removal
When tumors develop in the salivary glands, we typically remove part or all of the affected gland. If the cancer is aggressive or has spread to nearby lymph nodes, a neck dissection may be performed to remove those nodes and prevent further spread.
Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS)
For tumors located deep in the throat, we offer transoral robotic surgery using the da Vinci® SP System[MF4.1]. This minimally invasive approach allows surgeons to remove tumors through the mouth, avoiding external incisions and reducing recovery time. TORS eliminates the need for more invasive procedures like cutting through the jaw.