Head & Neck Oncology

head-neck-oncology

Pacific Specialists has some of the top oncology doctors in the country. We offer a range of oncology services including:

Removal of Cervical Lymph Nodes and Neck Dissection

Many cases of head and neck cancer metastasize, or spread, through the neck or cervical lymph nodes. While these metastasized cells are sometimes large enough to be detected through imaging exams, they are often microscopic and therefore undetectable through traditional modalities. Neck dissection is a surgical procedure performed to remove the lymph nodes that are either confirmed or suspected to contain cancerous cells. There are several different types of neck dissection procedures. The best type for each patient will be determined after a thorough evaluation of your condition by an experienced doctor.

Nasal and Laryngeal Endoscopy

An endoscopy of the larynx and nasal passages is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure performed using a local, topical anesthetic during a routine visit to our Los Angeles area office. During the procedure, a thin, flexible camera, known as an endoscope, is passed through the nostril to provide a detailed view of the nasal passages, sinuses and larynx. This allows for a complete evaluation of these structures, the results of which can be digitally recorded and reviewed with the patient immediately after the procedure.

Fine Needle Biopsy

Fine needle biopsy removes samples of tumor tissue using a thin, hollow needle to determine whether the lesion is cancerous or noncancerous. Performed under a local anesthetic in our Santa Monica office, this procedure involves inserting the needle directly into the site of the lesion to withdraw a sample of tissue or fluid. It can be used on nearly any area of the body, including the thyroid and lymph nodes. This procedure can also be performed to evaluate how well treatment is working or to determine is a mass is a solid or a cyst.

Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

Ultrasound guided biopsy uses ultrasound imaging to ensure that tissue samples are accurately obtained from the site of the abnormality, and is usually performed with a local anesthetic. Once the site of the abnormality is found on the ultrasound, a small incision is made and a thin needle is inserted to draw out the tissue samples. The ultrasound provides real-time imaging to verify that the needle is in the correct area, ensuring accurate test results.

Endoscopic Guided Biopsy

An endoscopic guided biopsy uses a thin, lighted, flexible camera known as an endoscope to obtain tissue samples of suspicious-looking head and neck masses. The endoscope contains a port through which small instruments can be inserted in order to remove a sample of tissue, which is then sent to a pathology lab for detailed testing. The results will confirm whether or not the masses are cancerous, as well as possible treatment plans. Endoscopy is an outpatient procedure performed using a local anesthetic.

Imaging Studies

CT, MRI and PET scans are imaging modalities that can play a valuable role in detecting cancer, as well as monitoring its response to therapy. Since each modality has its own advantages, most patients will benefit from multiple imaging examinations to fully evaluate their individual condition. Your doctor will discuss the reasoning, results and potential implications of each procedure with your prior to the exam.

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For more information or to speak to our head neck oncology doctors, please call our office to set up a consultation – (310) 477-5558, or complete the form below.

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