- Penn Medicine – Salivary Gland Center
Expertise: Penn Medicine’s Salivary Gland Center is one of the region’s only dedicated centers for salivary gland disorders. The team includes nationally recognized experts who have pioneered many minimally invasive surgical techniques, including sialendoscopy and TransOral Robotic Surgery (TORS), which was invented at Penn ENT.
Approach: Comprehensive care for both benign and malignant tumors, with a focus on precision, nerve preservation, and minimally invasive options when possible.
Why Choose: Access to the latest diagnostic and surgical advancements, multidisciplinary collaboration, and a high volume of complex cases.
- Temple Health – Dr. Cecelia E. Schmalbach
Specialist: Dr. Cecelia E. Schmalbach, MD, MSc, FACS, is a board-certified otolaryngologist and a nationally recognized expert in head and neck cancers, including salivary gland neoplasms. She has received multiple “Top Doctor” awards and is praised for her patient-centered, interdisciplinary approach.
Patient Feedback: Patients highlight her clear communication, compassion, and thorough explanations.
- University Otolaryngology Associates
Expertise: This group specializes in head and neck conditions, including salivary gland tumors, and uses state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques. They partner with other specialties for coordinated care and use neurophysiology monitoring during surgery to minimize nerve injury.
Why Choose: Aggressive treatment of all tumor types and stages, and a reputation for advanced surgical care.
- Fox Chase Cancer Center
Expertise: Fox Chase has a dedicated team for head and neck cancers, including salivary gland tumors. Their approach emphasizes thorough evaluation, imaging, and fine needle aspiration biopsy before recommending surgery.
Why Choose: High level of experience with both benign and malignant tumors, and a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive care.
- Jefferson Center for Head & Neck Surgery
Expertise: Jefferson’s team includes experienced head and neck surgeons who collaborate with reconstructive, radiation, and medical oncology specialists. They focus on preserving quality of life and function (speech, swallowing, taste) during and after surgery.
Why Choose: Compassionate, coordinated care for both malignant and benign tumors, with in-patient and out-patient support services.
How to Proceed
Consultation: Schedule an appointment with one of these centers or specialists to discuss your diagnosis, surgical options, and the best approach for your tumor type and location.
What to Ask:
Surgeon’s experience with your specific tumor type
Minimally invasive and nerve-sparing techniques available
Multidisciplinary support (oncology, speech therapy, etc.)
Recovery expectations and follow-up care
