Types of treatment

There are three main types of treatment for head and neck cancer: surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. A treatment called PDT is sometimes used. The treatments may be combined. For most people, the treatment is aimed at:

• removing the visible cancer
• reducing the chances of the cancer coming back

In most hospitals a team of specialists will decide the treatment that is best for you. This multidisciplinary team will include a head and neck or ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon, a clinical oncologist (chemotherapy and radiotherapy specialist) and may include a number of other healthcare professionals such as a:

• maxillofacial surgeon (a dentist who is also a doctor specialising in surgery to the mouth and jaws)
• dentist or oral hygienist
• nurse specialist
• speech and language therapist
• dietitian
• physiotherapist
• occupational therapist
• psychologist or counsellor

Together they will be able to advise you on the best course of action and plan your treatment taking into account a number of factors. These include your age, general health, the tumour type and stage.

If two treatments are equally effective for your type and stage of cancer – for example, surgery or radiotherapy – your doctors may offer you a choice of treatments.

Sometimes people find it very hard to make a decision. If you are asked to make a choice, make sure that you have enough information about the different treatment options, what is involved and the side effects you might have, so that you can decide what is the right treatment for you.

Remember to ask questions about any aspects that you do not understand or feel worried about. You may find it helpful to discuss the benefits and disadvantages of each option with your cancer specialist and also with the nurses at CancerBACUP.