Surveillance Simplified: Imaging, Biomarkers, and Accessibility for Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM EDT

Location: 127

Disclosure(s):

John D. Cramer, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Yusuf Dundar, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Kevin J. Contrera, MD, MPH:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Hilary C. McCrary, MD, MPH:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This panel will address the current evidence and practical considerations for surveillance in head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors, focusing on follow-up imaging, molecular advancements like liquid biopsy, and strategies to overcome rural and distance-related barriers. Comprehensive otolaryngologists often manage a diverse patient population with varying surveillance needs. This session aims to provide an evidence-based framework to standardize practices, improve patient outcomes, and enhance access to care for underserved populations.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Analyze the evidence for optimal timing and modalities of imaging during early and long-term follow-up of head and neck cancer survivors.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Evaluate the role of emerging molecular surveillance tools, such as HPV-related liquid biopsies, in monitoring head and neck cancer recurrence.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Implement strategies to address barriers in follow-up care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas, to improve surveillance outcomes.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Surveillance of head and neck cancer survivors is essential to detect recurrence early, improve outcomes, and reduce patient burden. Current practices are highly variable, creating a critical need for a standardized, evidence-based framework.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement : This session supports otolaryngologists in managing diverse patient surveillance, integrating evidence-based imaging, molecular advancements, and solutions to rural access barriers, enabling clinicians to deliver holistic, patient-centered care.

Moderator(s)

John D. Cramer, MD

Associate Professor
Wayne State University School of Medicine
Detroit, MI, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Panelist(s)

Yusuf Dundar, MD

Associate Professor
TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY - HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER
Lubbock, Texas, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.
Kevin J. Contrera, MD, MPH

Assistant Professor
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.
HM

Hilary C. McCrary, MD, MPH

Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
University of Utah - Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.