Head and Neck Tumours

Assessment and treatment of head and neck cancer

The Head and Neck Tumour Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital offers expert assessment and personalised treatment for tumours affecting this anatomical region, particularly in cases where it is necessary to precisely determine the most appropriate treatment strategy.

These tumours may be located in the oral cavity, the oropharynx, the larynx, the hypopharynx, the salivary glands or other related structures. Their management requires the integration of various treatment options within a coordinated and carefully planned clinical process.

The aim is not merely to prescribe a specific treatment, but to establish a comprehensive strategy that takes into account the extent of the disease, its biological characteristics and the functional impact that each intervention may have.

When a specialist assessment may be necessary

Assessment in this unit is indicated both for people with a confirmed diagnosis and for cases where a head and neck tumour is suspected, or where treatment needs to be determined following the initial investigation.

Often, the complexity lies not only in the diagnosis, but in deciding how to treat the condition, at what stage, and in what sequence. Determining the best combination of surgery, radiotherapy and systemic treatment, or assessing when one of these options should be prioritised, is an essential part of the process.

The location of these tumours, which is closely linked to vital functions such as swallowing, speech and breathing, means that every decision must be taken with particular precision and with an expert assessment of its functional implications.

Major head and neck tumours

The approach is tailored to the tumour’s location, extent, biological characteristics and the clinical situation of each patient.

The unit specialises in treating tumours of the oral cavity and oropharynx, cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx, tumours of the salivary glands, carcinomas associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV), as well as locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic disease.

Each case is assessed individually, with an approach aimed at balancing disease control with the preservation of function and quality of life.

Clinical assessment and treatment strategy

The process begins with a detailed clinical assessment that takes into account the pathological diagnosis, imaging studies and the patient’s general condition.

Based on this information, the treatment strategy is defined within the context of a multidisciplinary committee involving Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Radiology and Pathology, amongst other specialities.

Treatment is not based on a single option, but on the selection and appropriate sequencing of different interventions, tailored to each individual case and aimed at achieving the best possible outcome.

Personalised cancer treatment

The process begins with a detailed clinical assessment that incorporates the histopathological diagnosis, imaging tests and the patient’s overall condition.

Based on this information, the treatment strategy is defined within the context of a multidisciplinary committee comprising specialists in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Radiodiagnostics and Pathology, amongst others. This collaborative approach enables a more precise assessment of the various options and allows their sequence to be organised in the most appropriate way.

Treatment is not approached as a single, isolated intervention, but rather as a carefully selected combination of different therapeutic options, tailored to each individual case and aimed at achieving the best possible outcome from both an oncological and functional perspective.

Clinical monitoring of the disease

Follow-up is an essential part of the process, particularly in head and neck tumours, where it is necessary to assess the response to treatment, detect possible relapses at an early stage and manage side effects.

Follow-up appointments are tailored to each patient and enable treatment to be adjusted over time, in coordination with the other specialities involved.

Support throughout the entire process

A diagnosis of a head and neck tumour often raises complex questions and involves decisions that require time and a clear understanding of each option.

From the very first consultation, we take the time needed to explain in detail the clinical situation, the treatment options and the implications of each, tailoring the information to each patient and their stage in the process.

Each person understands not only the treatment plan, but also what to expect at each stage and how the treatment may affect their daily life. Where there are different options, the decision is made jointly, weighing up the benefits, risks and individual preferences in a balanced way.

Support is provided on an ongoing basis, with close monitoring and accessible communication that enables patients to resolve any queries, anticipate situations and approach their treatment with greater confidence and peace of mind.