Head & Neck Center

Oral, Cervical and Facial Oncology Unit

The unit

Precision surgery. Support at every stage.

The Oral, Cervico-Facial and Head and Neck Oncology Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital offers specialised diagnosis and treatment of cancer of the oral cavity and cervico-facial region, using advanced oncological surgery and reconstruction aimed at tumour control and the preservation of function.

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Dr María José Morán Soto
Head of the unit

Dr María José Morán Soto

Specialist in
  • Microsurgical reconstruction of the head and neck.
  • Surgical treatment of head and neck cancer.
  • Facial cosmetic procedures.
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Medical team

Our specialists

Dr José Luis Cebrián Carretero

Dr José Luis Cebrián Carretero

Specialist in
  • Orthognathic surgery and temporomandibular joint surgery.

  • Personalised (“custom-made”) reconstructive facial surgery following cancer treatment.

  • Advanced implantology and guided bone regeneration.

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Patient information

Oral, Cervical and Facial Oncology Unit

Diagnosis and surgical treatment of tumours of the oral cavity and maxillofacial region

The Head and Neck Oncology Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital is a highly specialised department dedicated to the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of malignant tumours affecting the oral cavity, the salivary glands and the head and neck region.

The unit is headed by Dr María José Morán Soto, a specialist with particular expertise in head and neck oncology and advanced reconstructive surgery.

This unit focuses on complex oncological conditions that require surgical precision, in-depth knowledge of tumour biology and advanced reconstructive planning. Its structure is designed to manage cases requiring expert assessment, individualised treatment strategies and multidisciplinary coordination from the outset.

Oncological assessment and personalised treatment decisions The therapeutic approach is determined following an individualised assessment of the tumour stage, its location and the patient’s overall condition, prioritising cancer control, functional preservation and overall therapeutic coherence.

Comprehensive management of tumours of the oral cavity, salivary glands and maxillofacial region

The unit treats patients with suspected or confirmed cancer of the oral cavity, tongue, floor of the mouth, inner lining of the cheeks (buccal mucosa), gums, palate, major and minor salivary glands, as well as tumours of the soft tissues and bony structures of the cervico-facial region.

An expert assessment is particularly recommended in cases of histologically confirmed cancer, persistent lesions of uncertain aetiology, tumour recurrences or where complex reconstructive planning is required following oncological surgery.

The approach within a dedicated unit allows surgical assessment, reconstructive planning and overall oncological coordination to be integrated into a single diagnostic process, thereby avoiding fragmented decision-making and prioritising therapeutic consistency.

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Major tumours and pre-malignant lesions

The unit routinely manages malignant tumours and premalignant lesions of particular clinical significance, the management of which requires surgical expertise and structured planning. Each case is assessed individually, taking into account tumour stage, anatomical location, lymph node involvement and the patient’s general condition.

Among the most common clinical conditions are:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity.

  • Tumours of the tongue and floor of the mouth.

  • Salivary gland tumours.

  • Tumours of the maxilla and mandible.

  • Cancer recurrence in the head and neck region.

  • Premalignant lesions with a high risk of transformation.

The therapeutic approach is always based on sound oncological criteria, taking into account the available alternatives and striking a balance between tumour control, function and aesthetic outcome.

Safety starts with a detailed assessment.
Safety starts with a detailed assessment.

Cancer diagnosis and treatment planning

The process begins with a specialist consultation, during which a thorough clinical examination is carried out, along with a detailed review of imaging tests and histopathological studies.

Depending on the individual case, high-resolution imaging studies, 3D digital surgical planning and specific lymph node assessment may be required. The Unit plays an active role in multidisciplinary tumour boards, alongside Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology and Pathology, to agree on the most appropriate treatment strategy.

This approach ensures that every decision is based on rigorous clinical analysis and a comprehensive understanding of the cancer management process.

Multidisciplinary committee and coordinated treatment strategy Each case is managed in consultation with the various specialists involved, integrating oncological surgery and advanced reconstructive planning within a structured and supervised process.

Oncological surgery and functional reconstruction

Surgical treatment is a cornerstone of care for most head and neck tumours. The unit performs oncological surgery aimed at complete tumour resection, with margin control and, where necessary, cervical lymph node dissection.

Reconstructive planning is an integral part of the surgical procedure. Microsurgical techniques, regional or free flaps, and three-dimensional virtual planning tools are used to restore anatomy, preserve masticatory and speech function, and optimise the aesthetic outcome.

The indication for surgery is established when there is a reasonable clinical benefit in terms of cancer control and quality of life, always following an individualised assessment.

Team of experts in oropharyngeal and head and neck oncology

The unit comprises surgeons specialising specifically in oral, head and neck oncology, with experience in complex pathology and advanced reconstruction.

Their practice is underpinned by structured protocols, detailed pre-operative planning and close coordination with other specialities involved in cancer treatment.

The care model at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital prioritises the clinical time needed to explain each diagnosis clearly, review treatment options and support the patient in their decision-making.

The combination of technical excellence, sound medical judgement and clinical compassion forms the basis of care focused on safety, dignity and therapeutic consistency at every stage of the process.

Request a specialist assessment

A specialist assessment makes it possible to confirm the diagnosis, redefine the treatment strategy where necessary, and draw up a plan that takes account of the extent of the tumour, the function that can be preserved, and the patient’s overall clinical condition.

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