Head & Neck Surgical Oncology - Mayo Clinic in Florida

Every service you need, in one place. Our specialized experts work together to treat head and neck cancers together as a cohesive team. We meet frequently as a multidisciplinary tumor board to discuss cases and develop individualized treatment plans. We also have a dedicated rehabilitation team, including therapists who help with speech and swallowing before, during, and after therapy. Our specialized nurses and advanced practitioners support you throughout your recovery journey.

Exceptional surgical skills, including TransOral Robotic Surgery (TORS). The TORS robot enhances access to and visualization of tumors. Our head and neck surgical oncologists, early adopters of this technology, have operated on hundreds of patients. Mayo Clinic was the first center in North Florida to offer TORS with a single-port robot and remains one of the few centers in Florida using this device for head and neck cancer. We have performed more TORS procedures than any other center in the region.

A wide range of advanced treatments. We offer advanced treatments including intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) for targeted radiation delivery, photodynamic therapy to destroy cancer cells, and cytoprotective agents to mitigate the adverse effects of radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Mayo Clinic also has the latest targeted medications and immunotherapies to treat head and neck cancer.

Reconstruction mastery. Reconstructive surgery uses advanced techniques like microvascular free-tissue transfer to replace cancerous tissue that has been removed. These methods can significantly enhance quality of life by preserving or improving appearance and functionality after head and neck cancer surgery.

Access to clinical trials. We offer access to innovative clinical trials aimed at improving head and neck cancer survival rates and enhancing quality of life. We’re currently involved in research opportunities for patients including:

Antibody-drug conjugates, such as monoclonal antibodies, which involve linking an antibody with a chemotherapy drug to deliver treatment specifically to the tumor area.
Immunotherapy studies that evaluate immunotherapy in combination with other drugs for patients with head and neck cancer.
Vaccine research, including trials for HPV-associated head and neck cancer and personalized cancer vaccines.

Commitment to innovative care. Starting in 2027, Mayo Clinic in Florida will offer proton therapy at our new Integrated Oncology Building. By 2028, we will be the first site in the Western Hemisphere to provide carbon ion therapy, using beams of carbon ions to target and destroy cancerous tumors.

National recognition. Each year, Mayo Clinic treats a substantial number of patients with all types of head and neck cancers, both common and rare. The insights gained from treating a high volume of patients contribute to improved survival rates and functional outcomes. Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center holds the prestigious NCI designation, recognizing its scientific leadership, depth and breadth of research, and commitment to serving communities.

Oral cavity surgery

We remove tumors in the mouth with surgical procedures, such as glossectomy, mandibulectomy or palatectomy. More complex surgery may include reconstruction, depending on your specific tumor’s size and location.

Throat surgery

We use the latest robotic and microsurgical technologies for precision. Often, surgery is part of a multidisciplinary care plan that can include chemotherapy, biologic therapy or radiation.

Salivary gland surgery

Surgery is often the main treatment for salivary gland tumors and requires specialized skill and expertise to preserve nerves that are critical for maintaining facial appearance and movement. This may be coupled with radiation therapy.

Thyroid and parathyroid surgery

Our specialized surgical oncologists and endocrinologists treat thyroid and parathyroid tumors using the latest technologies.

Larynx (voice box) surgery

We offer minimally invasive and advanced techniques, such as transoral laryngeal surgery or open partial laryngectomy. Our goal is to avoid removing the entire larynx, whenever possible. Our surgical oncologists work with you, laryngologists and other specialists to determine the right surgery for you.

Head and neck skin cancer surgery

Our experts work to prevent the spread of cancer and achieve the best possible outcome. We offer reconstructive surgery if removal of large areas of tissue or affected critical structures (like the nose, ears, or lips) is required.

Free flap surgery

Also called microvascular reconstruction, this is a specialized technique for reconstructing defects from head and neck cancer removal. It provides excellent results.

Neck dissection

This procedure safely removes lymph nodes in the neck and is often performed at the same time as primary cancer surgery.

Mayo Clinic offers the most treatment options for head and neck cancer surgery

Where you go first matters

Reasons to choose Mayo Clinic as a partner on your treatment journey include:

Mayo Clinic offers a full complement of services by head and neck surgical oncologists who are dedicated to meeting your unique needs.

Contact us to request an appointment.