Here at SUNY Upstate, we have significant experience treating a wide variety of Head and Neck diseases, including both malignant (cancer) and benign (non-cancer) tumors.

Examples of cancer we commonly treat:

  • Oral cavity cancer (tongue, mouth, jaw)
  • Salivary gland tumors (parotid and submandibular glands)

  • Oropharyngeal cancer (tonsil and base of tongue)

  • Laryngeal cancer
  • Thyroid cancer

  • Skin cancer

Our Head and Neck cancer patients are treated using a multi-disciplinary approach at the state-of-the-art SUNY Upstate Cancer Center.

We are excited to offer expertise in Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), a minimally invasive technology used in the surgical treatment of head and neck cancer, especially of the tonsil and base of tongue.

Surgery for aggressive tumors can sometimes require complex reconstructive surgery. Our experts use “free-flap” microvascular techniques to repair the surgical site and optimize functional restoration. This can entail using leg bone to reconstruct the jawbone or forearm skin to reconstruct oral and throat defects after resection of cancers. Some reconstructions require the use of advanced computer planning (Virtual Surgical Planning) to create a custom surgical plan, benefitting the patient.

For more information about surgery and the management of Head and Neck Cancer, please review patient information provided by the American Head and Neck Society, the American Academy of Otolaryngology, and the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery.

We have the first comprehensive Salivary Gland Disorder Program in Central New York. We utilize the most advanced technology including in-office ultrasound and salivary endoscopy -Sialendoscopy, (only available in few centers in the U.S.) This technology provides a minimally invasive approach to parotid and submandibular gland diseases (e.g. salivary stones, strictures, autoimmune disease and inflammation). This procedure avoids traditional facial or neck scars and avoids risks of facial nerve injury.

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