The Institute for Advanced Radiation Oncology

Disease Site Specific Treatment

Head and Neck Cancer

Surgery — combined with radiation therapy—is often the most effective methods of treating head and neck cancer. Radiation may be recommended after surgery if there is concern that the tumor may not have been entirely removed or that the lymph node-bearing areas in the neck indicate the development of malignant cells. Treatment for more advanced cancers also may involve chemotherapy.

Radiation Therapy Playing Major Role in Head and Neck Cancer Program
Through the Leon Hess Cancer Center’s Head and Neck Cancer Program, a coordinated approach to treatment is offered for head and neck cancers involving the following:

  • Oral cavity, including the tongue
  • Salivary glands
  • Nasal cavity
  • Throat, including the pharynx
  • Larynx (voice box)
  • Thyroid
The Institute for Advanced Radiation Oncology offers several specialized state-of-the-art radiotherapies for the treatment of head and neck cancer, depending on the size, stage and site of the tumor. These modalities include: intensity modulated radiation therapy, brachytherapy and soon-to-debut Tomotherapy.

Radiotherapy for head and neck cancer usually consists of seven weeks of daily treatments aimed at the cancer and surrounding lymph nodes — resulting in a host of side effects that affect the quality of life for many patients.

Detailed information on disease-specific treatment is available under the Patient Information and Education section.

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Radiation Oncology
Monmouth Medical Center



Disease Site Specific Treatment


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