Oral and maxillofacial pathology
An etiological study of diseases is called pathology
Pathology of the mouth, face, neck, and jaw refers to the diagnosis of conditions associated with the mouth, face, neck, and jaw. An autoimmune condition may be caused by an inherited defect, an infection, a cancerous growth, or by an autoimmune condition.
It may or may not be necessary to perform surgery, depending upon the type of problem.
Imaging and biopsies
A sample of the affected area may be taken (a biopsy) by Dr. Doe to be sent to a lab under a microscope so that the bacteria inside it can be identified. Dr. John Doe can discuss the next steps with you after he gets the results back. It may take several days for you to receive results, but he will get them back soon.
There are often certain imaging procedures that must be performed, such as an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI scan.
Cancerous or benign?
These are benign tumors or abnormally growing cells that will not spread to other areas of the body. A few may grow so enormous that they weaken local structures. Surgery may be required for benign lesions. Several years of monitoring are needed when benign lesions recur.
A cancerous lesion is characterized by the invasion of new cells into nearby tissue. It is possible for blood cancers to spread to your lymph nodes and bloodstream. Surgical treatment is usually needed for cancerous lesions. Your care will also be provided by other cancer specialists.
Surgical options for patients with jaw and oral cancer
The type, stage, and location of cancer determine the types and extent of surgery:
Tumor resection – Cancerous tissue surrounding the tumor is removed at this stage.
Maxillectomy – This treatment involves the removal of the tumor, a part of the roof of your mouth, and a few other affected areas of your jaw.
Mandibulectomy – Involves removing part of your lower jaw.
Laryngectomy – An operation takes place when a large tumor starts to grow in your tongue or at the back of your throat and moves toward your larynx (voice box).
If your cancer has spread to your neck, you may need to remove your lymph nodes and nearby tissues.
Chemotherapy and radiation for cancer
Cancer of the face, neck, and jaw is often treated with radiation as well as surgery. Infrared rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells, thus limiting the spread of tumors.
In addition to surgery and radiation therapy, chemotherapy can also be used. In this case, cancer cells will be prevented from growing by medications.
The location and method of surgery
In a hospital or clinic, Dr. John Doe performs surgery on the face, neck, and jaw. The patient is sedated by a specialist anesthetist under a general anesthetic. Additionally, the anesthetist is responsible for providing you with pain medication after surgery.
Face, neck, and jaw surgery recovery
Considering the type of surgery you had, the extent of your disease, and your overall health, it can affect the recovery process.
You could be referred to another specialist after surgery by Dr. John Doe. To help you with your rehabilitation, you may also need to consult a speech therapist and/or a physiotherapist.
During your preoperative consultation, your doctor will provide detailed postoperative instructions. Follow the instructions carefully to increase your chances of a fast recovery. A general explanation of post-op and patient care is available on the Post-operative and Post-Patient Care page.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon John Doe has extensive experience. If you have questions about your pathology and concerns, he’ll take the time to answer and resolve those concerns respectfully. Ask him questions, because he explains things clearly and is a good listener.
Visit our comprehensive guide to dental pathology for more information.