Head & Neck Cancer
Expert evaluation and care for cancers of the throat, voice box, salivary glands, and beyond.
Being diagnosed with head and neck cancer can be overwhelming — but taking the first step toward evaluation and treatment starts with the right team. These cancers can develop in the throat, voice box, salivary glands, skin, or lymph nodes of the neck, and early detection plays a vital role in your treatment and recovery.
At Head & Neck Surgery of Kansas City, our board-certified ENTs (otolaryngologists) specialize in the diagnosis and surgical management of head and neck cancers. We work closely with your referring providers and, when needed, coordinate with oncologists and other specialists to support your care.
If you’ve noticed unusual symptoms or received a recent referral from another physician, schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Common Symptoms
Head and neck cancers can affect different areas and may present with symptoms such as:
- A lump in the neck or throat that doesn’t go away
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of something stuck in the throat
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Mouth sores or ulcers that don’t heal
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or neck
- Ear pain or hearing changes
- Voice changes or difficulty speaking clearly
How We Diagnose
Diagnosis begins with a detailed review of your symptoms, physical exam, and advanced imaging. We may recommend:
- Laryngoscopy or nasolaryngoscopy to visualize the throat, voice box, and upper airway
- Biopsy or fine needle aspiration (FNA) of any abnormal tissue or masses
- CT, MRI, or PET scan to determine the location and extent of disease
- Bloodwork and imaging to assess general health and treatment readiness
- Endoscopic or surgical evaluation under anesthesia to confirm diagnosis and plan treatment
We’ll guide you through each step of the process with care and clarity.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer. We may recommend:
- Surgery to remove tumors or affected lymph nodes
- Radiation therapy to target cancer cells with precision
- Chemotherapy, often combined with other treatments for more advanced cancers
- Reconstructive surgery to restore appearance or function after treatment
- Speech and swallowing therapy to support recovery and quality of life
- Long-term follow-up and monitoring to detect recurrence and support wellness
Your care plan will be personalized, and we’ll coordinate closely with your full care team when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tobacco use, alcohol, HPV infection, and prolonged sun exposure (for skin cancers) are some common risk factors.
Not at all — but any lump that doesn’t go away after a couple of weeks should be checked. Early evaluation can make a big difference.
Not necessarily. Many patients recover these functions. We work with speech and swallowing therapists to help preserve or restore them whenever possible.
It depends on the type and extent of treatment. We’ll support you with detailed recovery plans and follow-up care to help you regain strength and confidence.
Like many cancers, recurrence is possible. Having a history of head and neck cancer is a risk for developing another cancer. That’s why long-term monitoring is an important part of your care plan.
Here for You — Every Step of the Way
If you’re facing head and neck cancer, Head & Neck Surgery of Kansas City is here to support you with expert care and genuine compassion. Schedule an appointment with our board-certified ENTs (otolaryngologists) today.