Head & Neck Cancer Program

More than 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with cancers of the head and neck each year. These cancers often do not reveal symptoms until they have reached advanced stages. However, if patients are diagnosed early enough, the prognosis can be excellent.

Nowhere is there a more advanced or skilled approach to diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancers than at the Montefiore-Einstein Cancer Center.

Accomplished specialists working as a team

We deal with cancers of the oral cavity, larynx, throat and neck. We also treat cancers of the pharynx — the tube leading from the back of the nose to the esophagus and trachea.

Montefiore employs a truly multidisciplinary approach. We combine the expertise of numerous specialists — surgeons, radiation therapists, oncologists, speech and swallowing specialists, oral surgeons, radiologists and pathologists.

Our accomplished staff works as a team through diagnosis and evaluation to treatment and rehabilitation. Treatment options generally include some combination of radiation therapy, chemotherapy or surgery.

Pioneers in diagnostic research

Montefiore has a well-earned reputation for excellence in diagnostic research. One area of study we are currently involved in is gene expression patterns. Our ultimate goal is to develop a reliable test that will allow us to analyze patients' cancer cells to determine the most effective therapies and likelihood of recurrence.

Innovators in head & neck cancer surgery

Our surgical strengths include vast experience with such innovative procedures as endoscopic larynx surgery for advanced-stage larynx cancer. Montefiore is one of only a few centers in the New York area that performs this minimally invasive technique, which helps preserve the voice and ability to swallow.

We are a leader in vision-sparing sinus cancer surgery, using partial orbit surgery that removes the cancer while preserving the patient's sight. In addition, we are one of a small number of U.S. facilities capable of performing advanced surgery for tumors at the base of the skull.

Treating the patient as a whole

At Montefiore, we take the whole patient into consideration in determining the best course of treatment. We look at everything from how geographical distance will affect access to treatment to how much support a patient enjoys from family and friends. We keep a close eye on patient progress and make adjustments if necessary.

We understand the emotional and psychological concerns of patients with head and neck cancers. The areas involved are central to human identity and functioning, and we strive to preserve maximum use.

Our advancements in treating larynx cancer include ways to reconstruct the voice box to give patients a voice that doesn't sound mechanical or require the use of hands to talk. We rely on a unique drug therapy during radiation to protect the saliva glands and throat, minimizing post-therapy dry mouth. Our research on swallowing function after radiation and chemotherapy place us at the forefront of our field.

Together, our exceptionally skilled staff and diagnostic and treatment innovations offer our patients outstanding care and treatment for head and neck cancer.