Head and Neck Surgery

Cancer of the throat is more common in people who have a smoking history. However, younger patients without a smoking history can also develop cancer involving the throat. Common symptoms include a persistent sore throat, hoarseness greater than 3 weeks, difficulty swallowing, bad breath, or unexplained bleeding from the throat. Any of these symptoms warrant a prompt evaluation. Treatment usually involves a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

About 90% of salivary gland tumors are benign but most still require surgical removal.  The most common symptom of a salivary gland tumor is a palpable lump just below or in front of the earlobe.

Cancer of the oral cavity includes the lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue.  A non-healing wound, unexplained pain, or a mass in these areas should be promptly evaluated.  Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the tumor with the possibility of post-operative radiation therapy.  

Drs. Thomason and Zhou frequently treat skin cysts, enlarged lymph nodes, developmental cysts, fatty tumors, and other benign conditions in the head and neck area. Treatment may include biopsy and/or surgical removal.