Tumors of the Head and Neck are not common, but the treatment can cause a lifetime of symptoms and anxiety.
The Division works with specialists in other departments to diagnose, treat, rehabilitate, and minimize the impact of these uncommon problems. The guiding principle of the Head and Neck Oncology Program is to provide the greatest chance of treatment success with the least impact to the patient and family.
The Division focuses on the management of malignant and non-malignant tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, sinuses, salivary glands, neck, and thyroid. The Division provides routine care of patients at both Froedtert Hospital and the Zablocki VA Medical Center.
Teaching patients, families, and health professionals about cancer is another goal of the Head and Neck Oncology Program. Educational materials are routinely provided during visits. Smoking cessation is strongly encouraged, and help is provided. The Division produces a newsletter on a regular basis.
Otolaryngology residents rotate through the Division several times during their training including during their final year. Observing the doctor-patient relationship and having the opportunity to directly examine patients in a teaching environment is a rewarding experience for both patient and student.
Learning more about cancer and its effects is a major goal of the Head and Neck Oncology Program. In addition to clinical research, the Program has an active interest in the Quality of Life of long-term cancer survivors.
In addition, the Division has developed basic science research collaborations that are evaluating a novel method to decrease mucous membrane injury during radiation and chemotherapy, co-stimulatory molecules that might someday lead to vaccine therapy for head and neck cancer, and new studies of how eicosanoids might play a role in progression from pre-malignant to malignant states.
More Information on Research
Smoking and how to quit
Support Group Meetings
"Heads Up" Newsletter
Dr. Bruce Campbell's Reflection Blogs