Many neck conditions can be treated with medication or physical therapy. However, some require surgery. At WMCHealth, ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating neck conditions and can tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you. Our access to the most advanced technology and techniques makes us highly qualified to provide surgical and nonsurgical care for the full range of neck conditions, including infections, growths, and gland issues.
When Is Neck Surgery Needed?
The specialists at WMCHealth always approach care with the least invasive methods possible. In many cases, physical therapy and a course of medications can relieve symptoms of infections from cysts or abscesses. However, when infections become chronic or the airway is blocked, your neck specialist may suggest surgical intervention.
Neck Surgeries Provided at WMCHealth
Several types of neck surgeries and procedures can be done to relieve fluid, pain, and infection, including:
Excision and Biopsy
For conditions involving lymph nodes and neck masses where repeated infection happens, surgeons can remove the enlarged or swollen tissues and study them using a biopsy sampling.
Cyst excision
When cysts become tender, swollen, or infected, surgeons may recommend surgical removal.
Free Flap Reconstruction
Surgeons at WMCHealth use this procedure to restore functionality and improve appearance in the area that’s affected by cancer, trauma, or congenital abnormalities.
Incision and Drainage
A deep-space neck abscess is an infection between layers of deep cervical fascia. ENT surgeons may treat these infections through incision and drainage—piercing the abscess and allowing the fluid to drain out.
Laceration Repair
Whether caused by trauma, fracture, bites, or other events, ENT doctors perform laceration repair of the face or neck.
Parathyroid Surgery
In some adults, the parathyroid glands may overproduce the parathyroid hormone, resulting in elevated calcium levels in the blood. Your doctor may recommend a parathyroidectomy, which can be performed using a minimally invasive endoscopic approach to remove the affected gland.
- Salivary Gland Surgery: When the parotid gland develops an infection because of a blocked saliva gland, it may need to be removed.
- Sialendoscopy: During the procedure, the doctor inserts a small, flexible tube into the salivary gland through the mouth. This allows the doctor to see inside the gland and perform various procedures, such as removing salivary duct stones, injecting steroids, or taking tissue samples for biopsy.
- Thyroidectomy and Thyroid Nodule Treatment: Treatment for thyroid nodules depends on their size, symptoms, and characteristics. Benign nodules may be monitored by a doctor, while larger or suspicious nodules may require hormone therapy, radioactive iodine ablation, or surgery such as a thyroidectomy.
Our Approach
We understand that the neck is a sensitive area, and pain in and around your neck can impact many aspects of your life, including eating, speaking, sleeping, and breathing. Just as any surgical procedure can bring feelings of anxiety to you and your loved ones, our priority is to educate you on what to expect every step of the way before, during, and after surgery.