Head and Neck Cancer

If you suspect that you have a head or neck tumor or have just been diagnosed, our Head and Neck Cancer Clinic is here to help you.

Over the last decade, advances in chemotherapy and radiation therapy have allowed the world-class specialists at UAMS to treat many head and neck cancers with less invasive procedures or without surgery.

Our clinic at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute provides the most advanced treatment with state-of-the-art equipment for all types of malignant and benign tumors of the head and neck, including:

• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Thyroid
• Parathyroid
• Vascular malformations
• Salivary gland tumors
• Skull base tumors

Doctors in the Head and Neck Oncology Clinic work closely with our other cancer specialists, such as radiation oncologists and medical oncologists, to decide the best treatment plan available for you. Should you require reconstructive surgery, a surgeon with extensive reconstruction experience is available to see you in the same building as our clinic.

This multidisciplinary approach to health care is the standard for clinics in the UAMS Cancer Institute and not only offers comprehensive care but also reduces the number of clinic visits required.

Our clinic services are led by James Suen, M.D., who is nationally recognized as a leader in his field and has coauthored the manual on head and neck cancer.

Depending on your condition, you may be eligible to participate in clinical trials offering new and innovative treatment not available elsewhere in Arkansas.

Appointments

For new patients, please call 501-296-1200. For returning patients, call 501-686-8224.

We will talk with you about your needs and may request further information be sent to us from your other physicians.

Although UAMS does not require a physician referral, some insurance providers require a referral for specialty care. Please check with your insurance provider before requesting an appointment.

What should I bring to the appointment?

For your first appointment, please bring a photo ID and your insurance card along with a list of any medications you're taking, including over-the-counter medications. You should also bring any medical records you can provide, including slides or test results from other clinics.

For future appointments, please provide updated medical and insurance information.

What is the best way to contact a nurse at the clinic or request a prescription refill from the clinic?

Call the clinic at 501-686-8224, or you can request prescription refills during your appointment. If you originally filled your prescription at the UAMS Outpatient Pharmacy, you can also refill your prescription online.

Children at the Cancer Institute

For the health of your child and the safety of our patients, we ask that children age 12 and younger remain on the first floor in the lobby or café.

We realize that this may be a challenge for patients without childcare options. If you must bring your child, please visit the Welcome Desk when you arrive and they will assist you in finding an appropriate and safe place to wait with your child.