What We Treat

Head and Neck Cancer Specialist Melbourne

Targeted radiation therapy for cancers of the head and neck.
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About Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancers develop in the mouth, throat, voice box, sinuses or other parts of the head and neck region.

These areas are home to many delicate structures that are important for speaking, eating and breathing, highlighting the need for precise and accurate treatment methods.

Common types of head and neck cancer include:

  • Oral Cancer develops in the mouth, and may affect tissue of the oral tongue, lips, gums, cheeks and the floor of the mouth. Symptoms can include persistent sores, a lump or swelling or patches in the mouth, and difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking. Radiation therapy may be used as a primary treatment or alongside surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
  • Pharyngeal Cancer is a form of throat cancer that can affect the nasopharynx (behind the nose), oropharynx (posterior of the tongue, tonsils and roof of the mouth), and hypopharynx (lower throat). Symptoms can include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or changes in voice. Radiation therapy is often considered for early-stage throat cancers or when surgery isn't possible.
  • Laryngeal Cancer begins in the voice box which are essential for both speaking and breathing. It can lead to hoarseness, a persistent cough, or difficulty breathing. Radiation therapy may be used as a primary treatment, at various stages alongside surgery or chemotherapy or in palliative care.
  • Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Cancer is a less common type of cancer that forms in the nasal cavity or the sinuses behind the nose. Symptoms may include a persistent blocked nose or sinuses, nosebleeds, a decreased sense of smell, or facial pain and pressure. Radiation therapy may be used alone in treatment of early-stage cancer, or before or after surgery.
  • Salivary Gland Cancer is a rare type of cancer occurring in the salivary glands. It may cause swelling, numbness, or difficulty moving facial muscles. Radiation therapy is typically given after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells, or when surgery is not appropriate. It may also be used as a palliative treatment to help relieve symptoms of advanced cancer.

Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer Treatment

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer in the head or neck, it’s natural to feel worried about how radiation may affect this sensitive area.

Radiation therapy is often an important part of your care, and with advanced techniques, can be delivered in a way that is carefully planned and targeted to your individual needs. Two key types of radiation therapy that may be considered in treatment of head and neck cancers are:

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5D Cyberknife

CyberKnife is an advanced type of stereotactic radiation therapy that uses computer guided robotics and real-time imaging. This allows precise radiation to be delivered from multiple angles and adjusted for natural movement such as breathing during treatment. CyberKnife may be suitable for tumours in complex or hard-to-reach areas, including the prostate, lung, liver, pancreas, head and neck.

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External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

External Beam Radiation Therapy is one of the most common forms of radiation treatment. It uses a machine called a linear accelerator to direct beams of radiation from outside the body onto the cancer site. Up-to-date techniques such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) allow the radiation dose to be shaped more precisely to the tumour, helping to protect surrounding healthy tissue. EBRT may be recommended for a wide range of cancers.

Your Treatment Journey

Undergoing cancer treatment can be a difficult time for you or your loved one. Our team are here to guide and support you at every step. From the moment you are referred to our clinic, we work with you to explain each stage, answer your questions, and provide guidance so that you feel informed and cared for throughout your treatment pathway.

01

Referral

You will need a referral from your GP, surgeon or specialist to see Dr Mathlum. If you would like to access your treatment with us, you can ask your doctor to write a referral to our clinic and include any relevant scans or test results to assist with planning.

02

Initial Consultation and Treatment Plan

At your first appointment, Dr Mathlum will meet with you to review your medical history and test results and to explain the treatment options available. If radiation therapy is recommended, he will develop a personalised treatment plan for you.

03

Treatment

Radiation therapy is delivered over a series of sessions at one of our clinics. Each session is carefully guided and monitored by our team, who are always on hand to answer any questions and to help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the process.

04

Post-Treatment Care

Your care continues after treatment with follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and help you manage any side effects or concerns. Our team will stay in touch with you and your healthcare team to support your ongoing care.

Benefits of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may provide the following benefits in the treatment of head and neck cancers:
  • Precision targeting: Advanced imaging, planning and targeting allow for radiation to be accurately directed at the tumour, minimising the impact on surrounding tissue and structures.
  • Advanced techniques: Methods such as IMRT, VMAT, and stereotactic systems like CyberKnife allow the radiation dose to be shaped to the tumour, even in irregular or complex areas.
  • Improved patient experience: Unlike some older stereotactic systems, treatments such as CyberKnife do not require rigid frames for immobilisation, making the experience less restrictive.
  • Outpatient treatment: Radiation therapy is delivered in scheduled sessions at our clinic locations with no hospital stay needed.

Your Head and Neck Cancer Treatment Questions Answered

Because the head and neck area contains many delicate structures, some treatments may temporarily affect speaking or swallowing. Your care team will explain what to expect in your case and provide support to help manage any side effects.
The number of sessions depends on your diagnosis, the type of cancer, and your overall treatment plan. Some people may need daily treatments over several weeks, while others may have shorter, more focused courses. Your individual treatment plan will be discussed with you, so you know what to expect.
Yes. Radiation therapy is often recommended after surgery to address any cancer cells that may remain in the area. It may also be used as the main treatment when surgery is not an option.
The most common side effects include changes to the skin in the treated area and tiredness. Depending on where the treatment is delivered, you may also experience effects such as a sore throat, dry mouth, or changes in taste. Your care team will guide you on what is most relevant to your situation and support you in managing any side effects.
Radiation oncology is funded by Medicare with up to 90% of treatment costs covered. You do not need to have private health insurance to access treatment. Our team will let you know of any out-of-pocket costs once your treatment plan has been developed.

Why Choose Us?

Precision Technology

We use advanced planning and delivery techniques such as IMRT, VMAT and CyberKnife to deliver precisely targeted radiation, minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Experienced Practitioners

Your care is led by Dr Maitham Mathlum, a specialist radiation oncologist with 25 years of clinical experience. You will be supported by a skilled team, working together to support you through your treatment.

Collaborative Care

Every plan is tailored to the type and stage of cancer, as well as your overall health and individual circumstances. We work closely with your GP, specialists, and wider healthcare team to provide the best possible care.

Referrals from Practitioners

Radiation Oncologist

We welcome referrals from general practitioners, ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists involved in the management of head and neck cancers.
Because these cancers often require input from multiple disciplines, our team places strong emphasis on working collaboratively with referring clinicians to ensure treatment is well coordinated. We provide timely access to consultation and treatment, with a clear focus on open communication throughout the process. If you would like to discuss a referral or have questions about how radiation therapy may fit within a patient’s overall care pathway, please get in touch with our team.

25 Years

Clinical Experience

Clinical Trials

Active Research

Training

Radiology Education

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Support for Your Next Steps

At precision Radiotherapy Victoria, we’re committed to delivering tailored radiation therapy for head and neck cancer with a focus on precision and care. Our team understands the complexity of treating cancers in this area of the body and are dedicated to providing support and guidance throughout your treatment journey.

If radiation therapy has been recommended for you, speak with your GP or specialist about a referral to our clinic. You can also contact us directly to learn more about how we can support you.

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