Otolaryngology: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Oropharyngeal cancers are on the rise globally. Of late, many innovations have been applied to optimally treat this complex cohort of patients. A multidisciplinary treatment approach is crucial in meeting the complex needs of patients with head and neck disease as well as optimizing oncologic and functional outcomes. In particular, the application of transoral robotic surgery (TORS), a minimally-invasive, robotic-assisted surgical procedure, to the treatment paradigm has revolutionized the surgical approach, reducing long-term dysfunction. It offers a faster return to day-to-day activities; significantly less morbidity, less complications, scarring and risk of infection and reduced risk of long-term swallowing problems. In these cases, adjuvant radiation is often indicated. For patients with tumors precluding an upfront surgical approach, primary chemoradiation is an effective treatment. One of the most troubling sequalae from radiation treatment is xerostomia. This is a largely irreversible change that leads to the development of new medical problems that significantly affect quality of like. Submandibular gland transfer is a novel approach for preservation of salivary function in the prevention of post-radiation xerostomia. It is a relatively minor surgical procedure that when performed prior to radiation treatment can significantly improve quality of life. This has significant implications on patients swallowing function and oral comfort level during and post-treatment. Advances in other types of treatment techniques are currently in development which may have a major impact on how cancer patients are treated in the future.

Biography

Email: rsobel@gbmc.org