Urology

Surgical, Radiological Advancements in Head and Neck Cancer Treatment at Sentara EVMS Comprehensive Head and Neck Center

 

Head and neck cancers account for almost 4 percent of all cancers occurring within the United States. Providers at the Sentara EVMS Comprehensive Head and Neck Center pioneer cutting-edge research into managing such cancers. We’re developing life-saving treatments using innovative new surgical technologies and advances in radiation therapy, helping people with these types of cancers live longer, healthier lives.

 

Flex® Robotic System: A New Tool for Treating Head and Neck Cancer

In many cases, the simple location of oral or throat tumors prevents effective surgical management. However, Sentara head and neck surgeons use advanced surgical tools to resect tumors in hard-to-reach areas, including the Flex® Robotic System. This leading-edge technology eliminates anatomical constraints with a highly articulated, multi-linked, lighted microscope and surgical tools. For many patients, recovery is faster compared to more invasive surgical procedures.

Read the article: Flex® Robotic System: A New Tool for Treating Head and Neck Cancer

 

Complex Mandibular Reconstruction, a Sentara Specialty

When surgeons resect jawbone cancers, patients often experience a significant decrease in functional ability as a result of changes to the mandibular structure. Sentara EVMS Comprehensive Head and Neck Center surgeons specialize in mandibular reconstructive surgery, restoring both structure and function to the mandible using free tissue transfer from the patient.

ADVERTISEMENT

Read the article: Complex Mandibular Reconstruction, a Sentara Specialty

 

Is Less More When Treating Patients with Radiation Therapy?

Standard treatments for many types of head and neck cancers include high doses of radiation given over several treatment sessions. However, research now centers on lowering standard doses of radiation for certain types of head and neck cancers, including HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancers.

In addition to de-intensifying radiation doses, new medications could boost radiation’s effects in certain subgroups of patients. Read the article: Is Less More When Treating Patients with Radiation Therapy?

 

For more information about Sentara EVMS Comprehensive Head and Neck Center, or to enroll patients in clinical trials, please call us at 886-889-8163.

 

Resources: