Many people learn about head and neck cancer for the first time when they are told they will be treated for it. You, of course, wonder exactly what it is -- and how you will take care of yourself. We can help you get started with your research right here, and refer you to more resources: The term “head and neck cancer” covers any cancer in the head or neck, such as the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, salivary glands, throat or larynx.
The Sentara Cancer Network offers a regional referral center for the treatment of head and neck cancer, as well as the only dedicated head and neck oncology team in the Hampton Roads region. The team features two fellowship-trained specialists, a dedicated microvascular reconstruction specialist, a dedicated pathologist and a dedicated oncology research nurse.
Learning more
The Sentara Cancer Network has much more information available and can offer you referrals and treatment. Talking with a patient navigator can be your first step. The navigator, an experienced nurse, is able to connect you with a support group, tell you about your treatment options, including research trials, and provide you with all the support that you need.
A whole team will be working with you
While you will interact regularly with your patient navigator and your doctor, you will also have a whole team recommending care. The Sentara Cancer Network Head and Neck team includes two fellowship-trained surgeons, a microvascular reconstruction specialist, a pathologist and an oncology research nurse. These experts talk with each other regularly and share information so that they can give patients the best care possible.
The newest technology benefits you
The Network also partners with Eastern Virginia Medical School to advance treatments. In 2010, they were the first in Virginia to introduce TransOral Robotic Surgery (TORS), a minimally invasive surgical procedure for removing tumors in the voice box, throat, tongue and esophagus. Instead of making an incision, the surgeons work through the patient’s mouth to remove tumors.
They use the da Vinci robotic surgical system with TORS, and the system makes it possible to see the area that needs surgery clearly and without making any surgical cuts. Patients appreciate this because there is less scarring, a lower risk of infection and blood transfusion, easier swallowing afterwards and a quicker return to everyday living. The Sentara Care Network will continue to seek out treatments like this so that you can benefit.
Somewhere nearby for care
The Sentara Care Network offers patients several locations across Hampton Roads for treatments, making it convenient for you and your family. Wherever your home is located, you will find a care center close to you without having far to travel.
Care that will comfort you
The American Cancer Society presented the Hospital Patient Services Award to the Sentara Care Network for outstanding support to core programs. Several of our facilities have won awards for exemplary patient services and support.
For more information about cancer care at Sentara, call 888-220-2214. This toll-free number is your link to cancer education, physician referrals, support groups and any other questions you may have.
Original institutional research studies in head and neck cancer
Many multi-institutional
clinical trials ongoing in head and neck cancer
Weekly multidisciplinary head and neck tumor conferences with 100 percent cancer patient presentation/discussion/treatment planning
Annual head and neck continuing medical education symposium for community physicians
Specialized in surgical management of head and neck cancers offering organ preservation.
Learn more about head and neck cancer