- non-healing ulcers in the mouth
- painful or difficult swallowing
- change in voice
- lump in neck
Typical risk factors for head and neck cancers can be separated depending on where they originate. For instance, both melanomatous and non-melanomatous skin cancers are related to excessive sun exposure and Queensland is recognized widely as the skin cancer capital of the world. Oral and throat cancers however are more so related to dietary and lifestyle factors such as tobacco smoking and alcohol. More recently viruses have also been implicated in the development of certain types of head and neck cancers and have tended to arise in young, healthy patients. It’s imperative to seek medical attention if you have any concerning symptoms as early detection is the key to improved outcomes.
Several of our surgeons sub-specialize in the management and treatment of head and neck cancers. Along with oncologists and allied health professionals, all aspects of the complex care of these patients is coordinated meticulously to maximize the outcomes for patients and support for patient’s families. Emphasis is placed on a multidisciplinary model that is coordinated in both the private sector as well as through the Gold Coast University Hospital.
They perform all aspects of head and neck surgery including resection of skin and mucosal cancers, removal of cancerous neck lymph nodes, and cancers of the glands such as the salivary glands (parotid and submandibular) and thyroid gland.
Additionally, transoral robotic surgery (TORS) at Gold Coast Private Hospital and John Flynn Private Hospital is available.