Salivary Gland Cancer: Surgical Oncology Expertise at Heritage Hospital

Salivary gland cancer is a rare but significant malignancy that originates in the salivary glands located around the mouth, jaw, and throat. These include the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. While many salivary gland tumors are benign, some can be malignant and require timely surgical intervention for optimal outcomes.

At Heritage Hospital, our Onco Surgery team specializes in the comprehensive management of salivary gland cancers, offering precise surgical techniques, functional preservation, and reconstructive expertise for both early and advanced-stage cases.

Causes & Risk Factors

Although the exact cause is not always clear, several factors may increase the likelihood of developing salivary gland cancer:

Age & Gender: More frequent in older adults, with a slightly higher incidence in men
Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation to the head or neck area
Occupational Hazards: Prolonged exposure to industrial chemicals (e.g., rubber, plumbing)
Viral Infections: Epstein-Barr virus and others have been linked to certain tumor types
Genetic Mutations: Abnormal changes in DNA affecting cellular growth and behavior

Symptoms That May Require Surgical Evaluation

Painless lump or swelling near the jaw, cheek, or neck
Difficulty swallowing or restricted mouth opening
Persistent pain or facial numbness
Facial muscle weakness or drooping
Unexplained fluid discharge from the ear
Changes in speech or voice quality

Diagnosis & Surgical Assessment

Early identification and evaluation are key to successful treatment. Our diagnostic protocol includes:

Clinical Examination: To assess lump characteristics and facial nerve function
Imaging Studies:
- MRI & CT scans: Detailed anatomical imaging for surgical planning
- Ultrasound: Useful for initial lesion assessment
- PET Scan: Detects cancer spread to distant organs
Biopsy Techniques:
- Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) or Core Biopsy for cytological confirmation

Surgical Treatment of Salivary Gland Cancer

Surgery remains the cornerstone of curative treatment for salivary gland cancers, especially when tumors are localized or regionally advanced. Our surgical approach is tailored to ensure complete cancer removal while preserving critical structures such as the facial nerve and maintaining aesthetics and function.

1. Definitive Surgical Excision

Parotidectomy / Submandibular / Sublingual Gland Excision: Based on tumor site and extent
Nerve Preservation or Reconstruction: Facial nerve monitoring and repair when needed
Clear Margin Resection: Wide excision to prevent recurrence

2. Neck Dissection

Removal of regional lymph nodes if imaging or biopsy suggests nodal involvement
Helps in disease staging and improves long-term control

3. Reconstructive Surgery

Microvascular free flaps or local flaps for cosmetic and functional restoration
Especially important for large tumors requiring extensive excision

Multimodal Treatment Integration

Postoperative therapies are often advised to enhance outcomes in high-risk or advanced cases:

Radiation Therapy

IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy): Delivers high precision radiation while sparing healthy tissues
Often administered post-surgery to eliminate microscopic disease

Chemotherapy

Used in combination with radiation for advanced or metastatic disease
Drugs like cisplatin and doxorubicin may be employed

Targeted Therapy

For selected cases with molecular markers suitable for targeted agents
Designed to interfere with cancer growth with fewer side effects

Follow-up & Long-term Support

Surveillance Imaging & Exams: To monitor recurrence or complications
Rehabilitation Services: Speech therapy, physiotherapy for facial muscle recovery
Psychosocial Support: Emotional and mental health counseling throughout recovery

Why Choose Heritage Hospital for Salivary Gland Cancer Surgery?

Expert Surgical Oncologists: Specialized in head and neck cancer surgeries
Advanced Infrastructure: State-of-the-art operating suites, intraoperative nerve monitoring
Multidisciplinary Tumor Board: Joint planning with oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and reconstructive surgeons
Reconstruction & Rehabilitation: Comprehensive post-op care for optimal recovery
Patient-Centered Care: Compassionate, personalized attention from consultation to recovery