At Southwest Mississippi ENT, we have a team of experts who can expertly diagnose and provide personalized treatment plans for head and neck cancers.Our team brings extensive expertise, training, and years of experience in performing a wide range of head and neck surgeries. If you’ve noticed a mass in your neck, don’t wait—seek professional care today. Schedule an appointment with our experts to receive a thorough diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Head and Neck Surgery in McComb, MS
Southwest Mississippi ENT Provides Specialized Care for Head and Neck Cancers
When Should You Seek Specialized Care?
A lump or mass in the neck is rarely life-threatening. It is often a sign of an infection, such as tonsillitis, strep throat, or swollen lymph nodes caused by an infection. The mass typically forms as part of the body’s immune response to fight off illness.
However, you should take notice if:
- The lump or mass in your neck lasts for more than two weeks and you don’t see any other signs of an infection.
- The lump or mass grows larger.
- The lump or mass gets smaller but doesn’t completely go away.
- You develop multiple lumps or masses.
- You notice hoarseness or changes in your voice.
- You have difficulty swallowing.
- You are experiencing breathing difficulties.
- You have unexplained weight loss.
- You are experiencing persistent neck or throat pain.
- You have a skin lesion on the face or scalp that grows bigger or changes in color.
Head and neck cancers are more likely to occur in males who are over 40 years old. Other risk factors may include smoking or chewing tobacco and frequent or excessive alcohol consumption.
Parotidectomy
A parotidectomy is a procedure that removes the parotid gland. The parotid gland is located in front of the ears and is responsible for producing and secreting saliva to help lubricate the oral cavity. It is the largest of the salivary glands and removing it will treat some cases of salivary cancer.
Most tumors of the parotid are benign (non-cancerous), although some may still be malignant (cancerous), which is why addressing it is of utmost importance.
The procedure is performed inside an operating room. To start, the doctor will put the patient under general anesthesia. Then, the surgeon will make a cut in front of the ear and under the jaw. All or part of the parotid gland will be removed. The incision will then be closed. The procedure can take around one and a half to three hours. Most patients will stay overnight in the hospital and go home the next day.
Your care provider will walk you through the procedure and explain to you potential risks and side effects. These may include:
- Wheezing, rash, swelling, and low blood pressure (which are reactions to the anesthesia)
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Numbness in the lower part of the earlobe
- Changes in physical appearance
- Salivary fistula, or an opening in the skin from which saliva may leak through
Thyroidectomy
Thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes all or part of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck. It is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. The thyroid hormone is essential for the normal functions of the body’s many organ systems. It controls your metabolism, including heart rate and how quickly you burn calories.
Thyroidectomy is performed to treat various issues of the thyroid including thyroid cancer, goiter (or the non-cancerous enlargement of the thyroid), and hyperthyroidism (or overactive thyroid).
Thyroidectomy may be one of two types:
- Partial thyroidectomy: This means only part of the thyroid is removed. Your thyroid may work normally after the surgery.
- Total thyroidectomy: This would mean that the entire thyroid is removed and you will need daily thyroid hormone treatment to replace your thyroid’s natural function.
The type of surgery you need depends on the underlying reason for the procedure. For conditions like cancer or certain cases of goiter, a total thyroidectomy may be necessary.
Thyroidectomy is generally a safe procedure but like with other medical procedures, there are potential risks and side effects including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Permanent weak voice or hoarseness
- Low parathyroid hormone levels
Excision of the Submandibular Gland
The submandibular glands are a pair of glands located on the floor of the mouth just below the lower jaw. They are salivary glands responsible for producing saliva that lubricates the oral cavity. Several conditions may impact them, including chronic infections, tumors, and salivary stones. These conditions may hinder proper function and may need partial or complete removal of the gland.
The removal or excision of the submandibular gland is a common surgical procedure, typically performed when one or both glands are affected by issues like blockages in the duct, which prevent saliva from flowing properly into the mouth. These blockages are often caused by infections or the presence of salivary stones.
Submandibular excision is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in a natural skin crease in the neck, below the jaw. The gland (all or part) is removed and then the incision is closed. Most patients may need to stay in the hospital for a night and go home the following day.
Potential risks and side effects of the procedure include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Hematoma
- Temporary or permanent numbness of the tongue
- Speaking or swallowing difficulties
- Facial nerve damage
Trust Southwest Mississippi for Specialized Head and Neck Care
At Southwest Mississippi ENT, we have a team of experts that can diagnose and treat head and neck concerns. If you notice a lump or mass in your neck that has lasted for more than two weeks, it might be time to visit your care provider. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and treatment plans, taking into account your medical history, unique needs, and preferences. Schedule an appointment with us today and start your journey towards better health.
