We use a multidisciplinary team approach bringing together many different specialties to discuss the best practice for our head and neck cancer patients.

This approach provides an individualized treatment plan for our patients that supports better outcomes.

Head and Neck Cancers We Treat

General types of head and neck cancers include:

• Sinuses
• Inside and behind the nose
• The mouth, including tongue, gums and roof of the mouth
• Back of the mouth and the throat, which includes three sections called the nasopharynx, oropharynx and hypopharynx
• Larynx or voice box
• Lips
• Saliva glands

Treatments We Offer

OSF HealthCare offers a full range of diagnostic tests and head and neck cancer treatment options, including:

• Clinical trials
• Human papillomavirus - HPV infection blood testing
• Immunotherapy
• Medical oncology (chemotherapy)
• Radiation oncology
• Surgery
• Targeted therapy

Care Team

Head and neck cancer can be very complex. The care team is also complex and diversified to ensure the best possible outcomes. Your team may consist of medical and radiation oncologists and advanced practice providers. 

Our nurse navigators work to ensure that your diagnosis and treatment appointments run smoothly. They also arrange supportive service appointments with counselors, survivorship and financial navigators and oncology dieticians. 

Along with medical and radiation oncologists, you might require specially trained surgeons. An ear, nose and throat surgeon who specializes in complex head and neck surgeries. A dentist or oral surgeon specializes in mouth and oral cavity surgeries. These surgeons also provide reconstructive surgeries.

Other specialized providers and therapists, including speech and lymphedema therapists, work with you after your treatment.

The OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria provides you with additional specialist clinics if needed. Specialized clinics are also available at The OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria. Clinics include:

• High-risk genetic clinic – a team of advanced practice providers who help you with the risk for hereditary cancers.
• Palliative care clinic – a team of physicians and nurses that support you with symptom management.