Tumors are found in the three pairs of major salivary glands: the parotid glands, the submandibular glands, and the sublingual glands. Cancer can also be detected in the minor glands (oral mucosa, palate, uvula, floor of mouth, posterior tongue, retromolar area and peritonsillar area, pharynx, larynx, and paranasal sinuses). Minor salivary gland lesions are most frequently seen in the oral cavity.
SURGERY
For Major Salivary Glands
• Parotid Gland Tumor
Parotidectomy is the type of surgery to treat this kind of tumor. Most often, the surgery performed by the head and neck surgeon is the main treatment.
• Submandibular Gland Cancer
Surgery to remove the benign or cancerous tumor is usually the main treatment for this type of cancer. Your healthcare team may recommend:
• radiation therapy
• drug therapy (medical oncology)
• A combination of the radiation or medical oncology depending on the tumor's characteristics and stage
Addition procedures may be needed, including reconstructive surgery, dental care, and rehabilitation.
• Sublingual Gland Tumor
In this surgery, the entire gland is removed.
For Minor Salivary Glands
Minor salivary gland cancer can occur in your lips, tongue, roof of the mouth (palate), inner cheek, throat, voice box (larynx), nose, and sinuses. Your surgeon usually removes some surrounding tissue along with the cancer. The exact details of surgery depend on the size and location of the cancer.
RADIATION ONCOLOGY
For more information: Department of Radiation Oncology
MEDICAL ONCOLOGY
Current medical therapies include, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapies for advanced and metastatic disease, and immunotherapy.
INFORMATION & APPOINTMENTS
(631) SB-CANCER (722-2623)