Neck
Our Neck serivces are as follow:
The neck is a very complex anatomical area with many important structures. Masses of the neck can either be benign or malignant, but all neck swelling or masses should be evaluated by healthcare professional. Diagnosing the problem will begin with a thorough history and physical exam, but may require imaging, lab work or a referral to an otolaryngologist. The treatment will depend on the origin of the problem.
Chronic throat clearing is a common problem for which patients seek specialty care from an otolaryngologist. The cause of the throat clearing may likely be related to acid reflux but can also be due to post-nasal drip or other less likely causes. Typically, the otolaryngologist will perform a scope of the larynx to better diagnose the origin of this, often frustrating, symptom.
Inflammation of the salivary glands can be acute or chronic in nature. We have 6 major saliva glands: 2 parotid glands, 2 submandibular glands and 2 sublingual glands. Often times these glands can be blocked with stones or simply become infected secondary to poor salivary flow. Acute infections can be treated conservatively, however chronic or recurrent infection may require surgical managment of the affected gland(s).
Thyroid masses, nodules or enlargement requires evaluation. Although the majority of thyroid maladies are benign in nature, the American Cancer Society estimates 62,980 new cases of thyroid cancer to be diagnosed in 2014. Management is guided by test results often including imaging and/or fine needle biopsy. For clearly benign lesions, observation with follow up examination and ultrasound may be recommended. The correct diagnosis is paramount as benign asymptomatic lesions can be followed clinically whereas cancer, unknown lesions or symptomatic lesions may require surgery. At ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery, we are uniquely trained in surgical management of the thyroid.
Parathyroid glands regulate the amount of calcium in our bodies. There are usually four glands which are located in the neck adjacent to our thyroid gland. Primary hypoparathyroidism is when one or more of these glands enlarges and produces too much hormone, increasing our calcium levels. This finding often requires surgery to remove the affected gland(s). This could lead to symptoms including kidney stones, bone pain, abdominal pain, anxiety or depression and others.
Due to it being less common than other types of cancer, public awareness of head and neck cancer is often low. More than 70,000 Americans will be diagnosed with head and neck cancer this year. Due to many strains being associated with the human papilloma virus (HPV), that number is likely to rise. Symptoms of head and neck cancer can often be inappropriately brushed off as something less serious making late presentation of these cancers common. At ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery, we recommend all patients to be screened with at least yearly examinations of the head and neck. Any concern by the patient or screener should prompt timely evaluation by an otolaryngologist—head and neck surgeon.
Head and neck cancer has different treatment options depending on the type and location of the malignancy. Treatment may include surgery as part of the treatment plan. Radiation or Chemotherapy may be used instead of or in conjunction with surgery. It is important to take into consideration that head and neck cancer and its treatments may compromise functions such as voice, speech, swallowing, breathing and appearance. At ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery, we are firm believers in multidisciplinary care we will customize the best treatment plan for the patient.
