What is Head and Neck Surgery?
What You Need to Know About Head and Neck Cancer Treatments That Provide Life-Saving Results
By Dr. Rodrigo Arrangoiz, MS, MD, FACS, FSSO – Surgical Oncologist, Mount Sinai Medical Center
From the way we speak and eat to how we breathe and express emotions, the head and neck region plays a vital role in daily life. Unfortunately, this complex area is also susceptible to a variety of cancers that can dramatically affect a person’s health and quality of life. That’s why understanding head and neck cancers—their risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options—is critical for early detection and successful outcomes.
As a surgical oncologist specializing in head and neck and breast cancers at Mount Sinai Medical Center, I’ve seen firsthand how early diagnosis and expert care can be lifesaving. During Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, I want to share what patients and families should know.
What Is Head and Neck Cancer?
Head and neck cancer is not a single disease but a group of biologically similar cancers that begin in the squamous cells lining the mucosal surfaces inside the head and neck—such as the mouth, throat, and voice box. Cancers can also arise in the salivary glands, thyroid, sinuses, or skin of the face and scalp.
According to the National Cancer Institute, over 72,000 Americans will be diagnosed with a head and neck cancer in 2025 alone. These cases often involve complex anatomy and require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.
Risk Factors You Should Know
Several risk factors are strongly linked to head and neck cancers:
Tobacco and alcohol use: These remain the leading causes, especially when combined. Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is now the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers, particularly in younger, non-smoking patients. Sun exposure: Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancers in the facial and scalp areas. Poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, and exposure to certain industrial chemicals also contribute to overall risk.
Know the Signs—And Speak Up
Symptoms can be subtle. If you notice persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the neck, or an unusual growth in the mouth or throat, don’t delay—get evaluated by your primary care physician. You may be referred to a head and neck surgical oncologist for further testing.
Early detection makes a difference. Many head and neck cancers are curable when caught in the early stages.
The Role of Surgery in Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
As a surgical oncologist, my role involves diagnosing and surgically treating tumors in the head and neck region—both benign and malignant. Surgery can be curative, especially when paired with other therapies like radiation or chemotherapy.
Common conditions and procedures we manage include:
Thyroid and parathyroid surgery for cancer or overactivity Salivary gland tumor removal (parotid, submandibular) Lymph node dissections in the neck for cancer staging or treatment Mouth and throat tumor resections, sometimes involving the tongue or larynx Skin cancer excisions and facial reconstruction Advanced reconstructive surgery using microvascular techniques when necessary
Each patient receives a personalized plan based on the tumor type, location, stage, and overall health. At Mount Sinai’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, we combine advanced surgical techniques with cutting-edge diagnostics, targeted therapies, and compassionate, team-based care.
Expertise at Mount Sinai Medical Center
Mount Sinai’s Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of South Florida’s leading institutions for head and neck cancer care. We offer:
State-of-the-art imaging and biopsy services A multidisciplinary tumor board to tailor treatment plans Access to clinical trials and the latest medical advancements Reconstructive surgery expertise for functional and cosmetic outcomes Post-treatment rehabilitation, including speech and swallowing therapy
Our goal is to not only treat the cancer but also preserve quality of life—whether that’s helping a patient regain their voice, their smile, or their confidence.
About Dr. Rodrigo Arrangoiz
Dr. Rodrigo Arrangoiz is a board-certified surgical oncologist with specialized fellowship training in complex head and neck surgery and breast surgical oncology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and the Society of Surgical Oncology (FSSO). He completed his advanced training at some of the most prestigious cancer centers in the U.S. and currently practices at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, where he provides cutting-edge, compassionate cancer care.
To learn more about Mount Sinai’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, visit:
msmc.com/comprehensive-cancer-center
Rodrigo Arrangoiz MS, MD, FACS, FSSO 