Head and neck cancers

The IUCT-Oncopole treats cancers affecting the head and the neck, including cancers of the nose, mouth, throat (pharynx and larynx) and ears. Most of these cancers are squamous cell carcinomas.

Coordinating physicians:  
Prof. Sébastien Vergez
Dr. Michel Rives

CONTACTS
Appointments and medical information
Oncophone : (+33) 5 31 15 60 60

Specific follow-up and complex cases
Medical assistant to the committee : (+33) 5 31 15 60 70

 

Head and Neck Coordination Committee

The Head and Neck Coordination Committee consists of a group of specialists that examines every case and decides on the most appropriate therapies and treatment pathways to offer each patient, whichever specialties the treatment calls upon.

The committee also fosters innovation by suggesting possible avenues for developing new diagnostic techniques and therapies, and by conducting clinical trials.

 

Collaboration with the CRCT

And with the CIRIMAT laboratory (UMR CNRS INPT UPS 5085 – Prof. C. Laurent)

 

Patient pathways

The first step in treating patients with cancer is to do a complete workup combining scan results (at least a CT scan of the neck and thorax, after injection of a contrast material) with an endoscope examination, carried out under general anesthetic. The endoscope examination is used to determine the stage of the tumor, take biopsy samples and choose the most appropriate therapy.
In some cases an MRI and/or PET scan may be necessary.

 

Personalized treatment program

Head and neck surgeons, radiation therapists, oncologists and radiologists examine the results of each patient’s workup at a weekly multidisciplinary team meeting, so they can decide on a personalized treatment program for each patient. They then present this program, together with any alternatives, to the patient during a special consultation held in conjunction with the patient’s family doctor. 
 

Treatment

Treatment for head and neck tumors may involve:

  • Surgery
  • Radiotherapy
  • Chemotherapy

Administered either alone or in combination.
 

Supportive care

Supportive care is available throughout the treatment period, from diagnosis to post-treatment. Services include speech therapy, dental treatment, nutrition, physiotherapy, and help in overcoming tobacco and other addictions. In addition, the cancer rehabilitation team will evaluate and help you overcome any impacts the disease and its treatment may have on swallowing and/or speech.

 

Follow up

Once treatment has been completed, follow-up consultations are held at regular intervals to check that the disease is under control and to treat any after effects of the disease and its treatment.

At any stage in your treatment, you may be asked whether you would like to take part in a clinical research project.  

 

Medical team

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