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The Department of Head and Neck SurgeryHead and Neck Surgical Oncology |
The Head and Neck Surgical Oncology Program has maintained a national reputation throughout the 25+ years since its inception, particularly in the areas of partial laryngeal surgery and mandible-sparing procedures for oral cavity tumors. Head and Neck Surgery Oncology team members offer interdisciplinary specialization in head and neck oncology, reconstructive surgery and laser surgery as well laryngeal physiology and speech therapy. Neurosurgeons, ophthalmologists, maxillofacial experts, and radiation oncologists are incorporated into care as indicated.
Patient Care
Patients referred to the program usually have prima facie evidence of a tumor, either through biopsy or X-ray. The initial consultation involves a complete evaluation by a head and neck surgeon, including additional diagnostic procedures such as fine-needle aspiration, open biopsies, CT scans, and MRI studies. Many patients are geographically distant from UCLA and special arrangements are often made to optimize the patient's time at UCLA. Program staff provide consultative services, as well as consultation and treatment, depending on the nature of the referral and the preferences of the referring physician and patient. Referring physicians receive detailed written reports on clinical findings and treatment recommendations.
Treatments include radiation alone for early lesions, minimally invasive surgery where appropriate, a combination of surgery and radiation and, in some cases, chemotherapy. Clinical trials for chemotherapeutic agents and emerging surgical techniques are available to appropriate patients.
The program specializes in complex anatomical and functional problems, and excels in reconstructive rehabilitation of patients with functional and cosmetic defects resulting from ablative surgery. Microvascular free flaps and osseointegrated implants are routinely utilized, along with prostheses, to restore patients' ability to swallow, speak and chew normally, and to maintain normal appearance. Post-operative care is closely coordinated with the referring physician and geared toward monitoring the patient for tumor recurrences.
For more information, please visit the Head and Neck Surgical Oncology page on the Department of Head and Neck Surgery website.
(310) 206-6688 Appointment, information and referral
Website
www.HeadandNeckSurgery.ucla.edu
| Director | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Abemayor, Elliot MD, PhD | Otolaryngology |
Physician |
|
| Berke, Gerald MD | Otolaryngology |
| Blackwell, Keith MD | Otolaryngology |
| Gopen, Quinton MD | Otolaryngology |
| Head, Christian MD | Otolaryngology |
| Kedeshian, Paul MD | Surgery; Otolaryngology |
| Mendelsohn, Avraham MD | Otolaryngology |
| Nabili, Vishad MD | Surgery; Otolaryngology |
| Sercarz, Joel MD | Otolaryngology |
| St. John, Maie MD, PhD | Otolaryngology |
| Suh, Jeffrey MD | Otolaryngology |
| Wang, Marilene Beth MD | Otolaryngology |
Head & Neck Surgery
Medical Oncology
Surgery
Surgical Oncology
Body System Locations
Brain and Nerves
Ear, Nose and Throat
Mouth and Teeth
Disorders and Conditions
Cancers
