Head and Neck Cancers
Head and neck cancer refers to a group of related cancers. These cancers can affect all areas of the head and neck, including the mouth, nose, throat, voice box, and glands that make saliva. At U-M Health, our specialty trained ear, nose and throat physicians diagnose and treat more cancers than any program in Michigan and is one of the largest programs in the Midwest.
We also offer evaluations for people seeking second opinions, along with the option of staying with us for your care. You’re in skilled, capable hands with our team.
As part of the Rogel Cancer Center, our doctors are involved in researching better treatments, methods to detect these types of cancers earlier, and ways to improve our patients' quality of life.
Multidisciplinary Care
Our ear, nose, and throat program is ranked among the country’s best by U.S. News & World Report. U-M Health also offers one of the region’s few comprehensive cancer centers. This designation from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) recognizes the Rogel Cancer Center’s exceptional care and scientific leadership. Together, we offer:
- Coordinated care: Head and neck cancer is complex. We coordinate imaging, biopsies, and consultations to reduce your travel burden. This approach helps us shorten the time it takes to make a diagnosis and start treatment. When possible, we can offer telemedicine appointments, for both initial appointments and follow-up appointments.
- Surgical expertise: We specialize in complex surgeries, including robotic surgery for hard to reach areas in the throat and voice box. We also help restore your appearance and function via microvascular surgery. We perform more head and neck reconstructions than any other program in the Midwest. We frequently use 3D modeling and computer assistance to achieve precise results.
- Supportive care: Our highly dedicated team ensures you feel supported during treatment and works to protect your quality of life. For example, our speech therapists help you recover so you can talk and eat the way you want. And our social workers provide guidance for concerns such as financial aid and housing. In addition, the Rogel Cancer Center offers a Patient and Family Support Services Program.
A team approach is crucial when delivering head and neck cancer care. These complex cancers often require more than one type of treatment, as well as intensive, ongoing support.
Our Head & Neck Cancer Program members meet regularly to determine the most effective treatment for each person we help. We take a thoughtful, personalized approach, with recommendations that account for an individual’s health, tumor type, tumor stage, symptoms, and personal preferences.
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News & Stories
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