Several structures lie between your head and your chest that may become cancerous. Throat cancers can include oropharyngeal cancers, cancers of the voice box (larynx) and cancer of the esophagus. Our specialized oncologists and surgeons treat all kinds of throat cancer, including cancer of the tonsils, which lie in the back of the throat.

• The oropharynx includes the middle of the throat from the tonsils to the tip of the voice box. Cancers can occur at the base of the tongue, in the tonsils, on the soft palate, and in the walls of the pharynx. There are two types of these cancers: HPV-positive, which are related to human papillomavirus infection, and HPV-negative. HPV-negative oral cancer, often related to heavy tobacco or alcohol usage.


• Your larynx is your voice box. Cancers growing in this part of your body can grow in and around the vocal cords and other structures near the voice box.


• The esophagus connects the throat to the stomach. It is a hollow muscular tube. Cancer of the esophagus starts in the mucous membrane that lines this tube. This cancer can spread outward through the other layers.

Why Choose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center?

One of only 71 NCI-designated cancer centers in the United States. Sylvester is one of only two cancer centers in Florida that have been recognized by the National Cancer Institute. The team earned this distinction through its outstanding work conducting research in its laboratories, treating patients in its clinics and hospitals, and reaching out to medically underserved communities with innovative prevention strategies.

More board-certified head and neck surgical specialists than any other South Florida provider. Our team offers advanced, simplified surgery solutions. In the majority of cases requiring reconstruction, you have just one operation for cancer removal and any reconstructive surgery. Sylvester is one of the best places in the country for simultaneous head and neck cancer surgery and microvascular reconstruction.

Depth and breadth of clinical trials. Sylvester has been conducting in-house clinical trials for over twenty years for esophageal cancer therapies. Our reconstructive specialists can rebuild an esophagus or stomach after surgery. Regain the quality of life you are accustomed to living.

One of the best multidisciplinary speech and swallowing rehabilitation programs in the country. If you undergo surgery affecting your jaw, face and/or neck, you will be personally supported by some of our nation’s top experts to restore your quality of life.

Advanced radiation oncology tools. Sylvester is one of only five medical centers in the country with ViewRay™ — MRI-guided radiation therapy. Our RapidArc® radiotherapy system delivers intensity modulated external radiation therapy (IMRT). These tools lead to more efficient and effective treatments, shorter treatment times, pinpoint accuracy in tumor targeting, and less damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Radiation re-treatment expertise for recurrent throat tumors. Re-treatment is a complex process that may follow surgery for recurrence (when cancer grows back). Radiation re-treatment may also be offered if surgery is not feasible. Few other South Florida providers offer these options.

Greater access to the latest treatments. Clinical trials that focus on robotic surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and reducing radiation toxicity are often available for head and neck cancer patients. Your access to treatments that are not available elsewhere give you the best chance for the best treatment outcomes.

The only designated Cancer Center of Excellence in South Florida. We treat cancer and only cancer, giving you the best potential outcomes. The likelihood of surviving cancer after five years at a Dedicated Cancer Center is 17 percent higher than at other hospitals.

Multidisciplinary care teams with nationally recognized expertise. Your care team is made up of experts in all aspects of your exact type of cancer. All of your physicians, nurses, and more collaborate to save lives.