Head and Neck Cancer Program

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 (nasopharyngeal)
  • The mouth, including lips, tongue, gums and roof of mouth
  • Tonsil and base of tongue – both human papillomavirus (HPV) and non-HPV (oropharyngeal)
  • Voice box (larynx) and lower part of throat (hypopharynx)
  • Saliva (salivary) glands

Treatments We Offer

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

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 navigators and financial navigators. They will also help to schedule appointments with oncology dieticians before treatment begins. 

Along with medical and radiation oncologists, you might require a specially trained ear, nose and throat surgeon (otolaryngologist) or a plastic surgeon. Otolaryngologists specialize in complex head and neck surgeries. Plastic surgeons specialize in 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.