Besides surgery, how else are head and neck cancers treated?

Chemo, Radiation: Besides surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are typically used. Radiation is used in both early as well advanced cancers while chemotherapy is used in advanced cancers and those cases where the cancer has recurred.

Combined treatment: Head and neck cancer patients are usually seen in a combined clinic with surgeons, radiation oncologist and medical oncologist. In most early cases, surgery may be adequate but in early throat cancer, radiation is preferred. In advanced cases, combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation may be required and the sequence is individualized.