1. Radiation Techniques Used in Treatment of Salivary-Gland Cancer
If your case of salivary-gland cancer was detected after it already had reached an advanced stage, your doctor probably will commence treatment with radiation therapy. External radiation techniques often are applied to salivary gland cancer that's spread to adjacent bodily tissues. Surgery is usually not a viable option, as too many areas are affected by cancerous growths to make it effective. There are side effects associated with radiation therapy. Because of the location of the salivary gland, these effects are usually limited to the mouth and throat area and may include changes in taste perception, difficulties with swallowing, sore throat, skin changes and fatigue.
2. Spot It Early, Get Surgery
Surgery is the most viable option if your tumor was discovered before it had a chance to spread. If the tumor is small enough, a doctor may remove it in a single procedure. However, there are serious risks with the procedure. Vital nerve endings located close to the salivary gland control certain facial movements. While the surgeon will try to avoid these, loss of facial mobility can occur following surgery. Occasionally, the doctor must remove lymph nodes, other nerve endings and muscle structures in the neck region. This can result in loss of feeling in your ears, a weakened lower lip and difficulty raising your arms above your shoulders.
3. Post-Surgical Follow-up Treatments
If you experience some of the more difficult side effects of surgery, your doctor may assign you to a physical therapist or attempt reconstructive surgery. Physical therapy is aimed at teaching you to adapt to the physical limitations caused by the surgery while reconstructive therapies can rebuild the bodily structures affected by the procedure. Reconstruction is frequently used when the surgery required the removal of important bones in the facial area.
