The Head and Neck Oncology Program offers diagnosis and treatment for those with mouth cancer.  To make an appointment or for more information, call 734-936-8051.

Healthcare professionals, please contact our M-LINE service: 800-962-3555.

There aren't obvious symptoms in the earliest stages of paranasal or nasal cavity cancer; and there aren't symptoms or signs that are specific to these cancers. Check with your doctor if you have:

• Blocked sinuses that do not clear, or sinus pressure
• Headaches or pain in the sinus areas
• A runny nose
• Nosebleeds
• A lump or sore inside the nose that does not heal
• A lump on the face or roof of the mouth
• Numbness or tingling in the face
• Swelling or other trouble with the eyes, such as double vision or the eyes pointing in different directions
• Pain in the upper teeth, loose teeth, or dentures that no longer fit well
• Pain or pressure in the ear

If your doctor suspects paranasal or sinus cavity cancer, they will do the following:

• Physical exam of the nose, face, and neck
• X-rays of the head and neck: An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
• An MRI: A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).
• CT scan (CAT scan):  This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.  Pictures are taken of areas inside the body using a computer linked to an x-ray.  In some cases, a dye may be injected or swallowed in order for the organs and tissues to be seen more clearly.
• Biopsy: The removal of cells or tissues for viewing under a microscope by check for signs of cancer. There are three types of biopsy:
  • Fine-needle aspiration:  This is the removal of tissue or fluid using a needle.
  • Incisional biopsy:  The removal of part of tissue that looks abnormal.
  • Excisional biopsy:  The entire removal of tissue that looks abnormal.
• Nasoscopy:  A nasoscope (a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing inside the nose) is inserted.  There's a tool on the end which can be used to remove tissue to look at under a microscope.
• Laryngoscopy:  This procedure checks the voice box (also called the larynx) with a mirror or a laryngoscope (a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing).  

Nasal and sinus cancers are rare conditions that require specialized doctors. Our surgeons use both minimally invasive and traditional surgical techniques to remove nasal and sinus cancers.

Our minimally invasive approaches include transoral robotic surgery (TORS), as well as surgery directly through the nose using small cameras and instruments. These approaches let us more easily reach into the sinuses, reducing incisions and recovery time.