About head and neck cancer care at Ascension Illinois
At Ascension Illinois in Chicago, you’ll find specialists who are part of a national team of doctors, sharing best practices, advanced treatments and the latest in research for head and neck cancer — bringing the best of oncology care close to home.
Your care team includes a multidisciplinary team of doctors prioritizing early and personalized treatment. This team includes board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons,ENT doctors, radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic surgeons, endocrinologists, oncology nurses, dietitians and cancer specialists.
When you’re going through head and neck cancer, we’re by your side
Cancer is personal, and so is the way we care for you. You’ll have face-to-face visits with your doctor and have an entire care team connecting the dots for you. Your doctor and care team will take the time to answer all your questions — big and small. By getting to know you and working together, you get a care plan that’s customized to your needs. And with a plan, comes hope. Our goal is to help you recover faster so you can get back to your daily life.
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A team approach that helps navigate tests and support services
Along the way, your care may include imaging, lab tests, pharmacy support, physical therapy or other specialty services. You do not have to navigate your care alone. Upon your cancer diagnosis or when you come to us during your cancer care, you’re paired with a cancer care navigator who helps you schedule appointments and connect with any other services you need.
Comprehensive head and neck cancer care in Illinois
At Ascension Illinois, we deliver the latest surgical technologies and techniques, high-tech radiation facilities, medication treatments and support services.
Our experienced endocrine and head and neck surgeons collaborate with other surgical specialists to deliver advanced care before, during and after head and neck cancer surgery. For throat cancer surgery and thyroid and parathyroid gland surgery, our surgeons use advanced techniques, including 3D imaging and endoscopic nerve monitoring technology to deliver leading-edge surgical treatments that support your safety and may lead to a faster recovery.
Types of head and neck cancer
There are several types of head and neck cancer (sometimes called oral cancer), and they all have different treatment plans.
Our specialists in Chicagoland treat many types of head and neck cancers, including cancer that affects your:
- Lymph nodes in the neck, thyroid and parathyroid gland
- Mouth, tongue, lips, gums, tonsils
- Nose and sinuses
- Salivary glands
- Throat, including vocal cords and surrounding structures
This group of cancers often form in cells that line the moist surfaces within the head and neck.
Using tobacco and drinking too much alcohol may increase your risk of developing head and neck cancer.
Head and neck cancer does not include brain cancer or cancer of the eye.