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Head and neck


What is head and neck ca​ncer?


Head and neck cancer arises in the mouth, jaw, throat and neck. 



Our service​

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The head and neck team at the NSCC manages all types and stages of head and neck cancers from diagnosis, treatment and supportive care, including assessment of symptoms and side effects.

Patient cases are discussed at a multi-disciplinary team meeting (MDT) to ensure the best possible treatment recommendation is made. The head and neck team includes surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, nurses, pathologists, radiologists, speech pathologists and dietitians. 

Supportive care services include nutrition, social work and psychology. We receive referrals and treat patients from North Coast Cancer Care team  and they attend our weekly MDT meeting online.


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Multidisciplinar​y team (MDT) and clinics

MDT runs every Tuesday followed by a clinic at NSCC 


Diseases

  • Salivary gland tumours
  • Skull base tumours
  • Oral cavity (mouth)
  • Oropharynx (tonsil, base of tongue, soft palate)
  • Larynx hypopharynx and cervical oesophagus
  • Nasal cavity and sinuses
  • Nasopharynx
  • Skin
  • Sarcomas of the head and neck
  • Unknown primary cancer of the head and neck
  • Paragangliomas​​



Head and neck cancer experts​​

Head and neck surgeons

Dr Leo Pang
A/Prof David Veiver
Dr Andrew Wignall

Maxillo-facial/plastic reconstructive surgeons

Dr Jeon Cha
Dr Rowan Gillies
Dr Bishoy Soliman

Radiation oncologists

Dr Sarah Bergamin
Dr Dasantha Jayamanne
Dr Mark Stevens

Medical oncologists

A/Prof Alex Guminski
Dr Adrian Lee

Oral surgeon

Dr Eric Carter
Dr Yadir Singh

Pathologists

Dr Tricia Saurine​

Radiologists

Dr David Brazier
Dr Allison Newey

Head and neck cancer nurse coordinator

​CNC Paula Macleod​

​Cancer nurse coordinators​​

  • Paula Macleod, Cancer Nurse Coordinator

    I have over 30 years' experience as a registered nurse and been a cancer nurse coordinator since 2010, with a Masters in Cancer Nursing, Foundation in Clinical leadership. I'm trained as a clinical supervisor and am an active participant in speciality nursing groups promoting the role of the radiation oncology nurse.

    I coordinate the care of head and neck cancer patients as an integral member of the multidisciplinary cancer team.I am passionate about providing a high standard of care to patients and ensuring best outcomes through research.

Affiliations/pa​rtners

ChevronNorth Coast Cancer Care team
ChevronDermatology department
ChevronGenesis Care


Questions to ask your doctor​​
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When diagnosed with cancer, it's common to feel overwhelmed and forget questions to ask the doctor. The Cancer Council offers a list of suggested questions for you or your carer to ask at appointments.

These can help you be more involved in your care.



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Useful links​


ChevronFor information on cancers, support and services:External LinkCancer Council NSW
ChevronFor information on cancer treatments and patient information sheets:External LinkeviQ (Cancer Treatment Online)
ChevronFor education and support for patients living with head and neck cancer:External LinkHead and Neck Cancer Australia
ChevronFor help and support for patients living with head and neck cancer and their carers:External Linktheswallows.org.uk