Voice Box Cancer

There is hope, innovation and support available for those with laryngeal cancer cancer here at the U-M Rogel Cancer Center. Contact us at 734-647-8902

Patient Care and Treatment

The Head and Neck Oncology Program follows a team approach to care. Our patients have their situation discussed not only by our head and neck oncologists, but also by team surgeons and pathologists. By having everyone involved, a personalized treatment plan is developed. In most cases, this discussion happens the same day as the appointment, in our Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Oncology Clinic.

U-M physicians have pioneered efforts to use chemotherapy and radiation as an alternative to radical surgery. Our research has enabled physicians to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from this technique, and studies show that patients have good outcomes without unnecessary side effects. When surgery is the best option, we offer minimally invasive techniques -- including new transoral robotic surgery -- using the da Vinci Surgical System.

At U-M, we use the latest CT and MRI equipment to identify and assess how far a tumor has spread. This helps properly stage the tumor and directly affects the patient's treatment plan. Our surgeons have also developed microsurgical techniques to effectively reconstruct the tongue and palate after tumors are removed. Studies show patients who receive this type of reconstruction do better with speaking and eating compared to those receiving other reconstructive techniques. And our radiation oncologists have lead the way in the newest techniques that deliver life-saving radiation while sparing the salivary glands and throat muscles that are critical to swallowing.

Research and innovation

U-M researchers are at the forefront of understanding how HPV, or human papillomavirus, plays a role in the recent increase in head and neck cancers. We know patients with HPV-related tumors respond differently to treatment, and our clinical trials seek to understand how we can deliver the most effective treatments with the fewest side effects. In addition, we have a number of clinical trials open for eligible patients.

Support

Undergoing treatment for cancer -- particularly head and neck cancer -- is a difficult and sometimes painful process. To help, we've put together a page filled with Resources and Support for Patients. There are links to articles about treatment, survivor stories and information about support groups. Since our program is part of the U-M Rogel Cancer Center, our patients have access to a range of Patient Support Services. To fully understand what this means, please take time to visit the support services area of this website. We outline the services available to all of our patients at every point in their care.

Appointments/referrals

Patients, please call 734-647-8902. Healthcare professionals, please contact our M-LINE service: 800-962-3555.

For more information, visit our Head and Neck Cancer Clinic webpage.