How oral pathology expertise supports accurate diagnosis, early detection, and effective treatment

Oral[ML2] Pathology Biopsy in Mt Prospect IL Area

Regular screening for oral cancers is essential. When detected and treated in their localized or early stage (before they have spread), these cancers are associated with 5-year survival rates of 73% to 95%, depending on the specific site of the cancer. As these cancerous tumors spread, they naturally become harder to “cure” successfully. Our board-certified specialists at Associates for Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery support early detection, which informs prompt and effective treatment. Drs Russell P. Spinazze, Mark A. Spinazze, and Eliza P. Drobny take a special interest in oral pathology and offer biopsy services from our offices in Mount Prospect, Chicago, Bartlett, and Elk Grove Village, Illinois.

What is oral pathology?

Pathology refers to any lesion or change that deviates from the “norm.” This doesn’t always mean tumors and can also mean anomalies like cysts. Likewise, a tumor isn’t always cancerous. It may be benign or non-cancerous. Everyone needs to maintain professional oral cancer screenings. Any departure from the norm may be identified and evaluated further during these screenings.

What is the biopsy service?

Biopsy refers to the removal of a small amount of anomalous tissue, which is then analyzed. This analysis may rule out cancer or confirm the presence of cancer cells. In the context of oral cancers, the tissue will be removed from your mouth or a portion of the throat (the oropharynx), such as the base of the tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the tonsils. A biopsy is not any one service or any one procedure. It can be performed in different ways and using various techniques. Our specialists will determine the best method, depending on the nature of the concerning lesion/tissue and other factors such as the site or location of the suspicious tissue.

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Why might you perform a biopsy in the first place?

During a screening, our oral and maxillofacial surgeons may feel enlarged lymph nodes on the neck, abnormal thickening of oral tissues, and masses or lumps. They may also see white or red discoloration and sores that bleed or may be reported as persistent, and never seem to heal. Other red flags might include patients who tell us that their oral appliances no longer fit well (due to unexplained swelling), or they may have frequent and persistent hoarseness, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Our specialists’ use of advanced technology also helps pinpoint potential spots or areas that warrant further evaluation.

What can I expect following a biopsy?

We can advise on when to incorporate certain fluids and foods back into your diet and how to manage any discomfort or soreness at the site in the days following your procedure. Be sure to also care for your mouth as directed by our team at Associates for Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery; for instance, a prescription mouth rinse may be prescribed to prevent complications such as infection and to promote healing. The results from your biopsy are generally available within one to two weeks, at which time we will discuss the next steps based on the findings.

We know how scary anomalies found during a regular checkup or at our office can be, but you can lean on our specialists for pathology expertise that supports prompt treatment and a lifetime of oral and overall health. Our teams in Mount Prospect (847-255-7080) (773) 736-3300, Chicago (773-736-3300) (847) 255-7080, Bartlett (630-289-5002) (630) 289-5002, and Elk Grove Village, IL (847-593-0535) (847) 593-0535 welcome your specific questions today.

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Russell P. Spinazze, D.D.S

Russell P. Spinazze, D.D.S., is an expert in dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and facial trauma. A trusted professional, he joined Associates for Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery in 1997. A graduate of the Barrington High School, Lawrence University, and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Dr. Spinazze completed his oral and maxillofacial surgery specialty residency at the University of Illinois-Chicago Medical Center and School of Dentistry. His clinical interests include dental implants, dentoalveolar surgery, sedation, orthognathic surgery, and oral pathology. He is a published author too.

Mark Spinazze, D.D.S.

Dr. Mark Spinazze is a highly respected oral surgeon in Chicago with over ten years of experience. He graduated from the University of Michigan and the University of Illinois-Chicago School of Dentistry, completing his specialty training at The University Hospital in Cincinnati. Dr. Spinazze is board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and actively participates in numerous professional societies, such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Honored as a “Top Dental Specialist” by Chicago Magazine, he excels in procedures like dentoalveolar surgery and facial reconstruction, ensuring patient safety with his advanced life support certifications.

Eliza P. Drobny, D.D.S., MD

Eliza P. Drobny, D.D.S., MD, joined Associates for Oral, Maxillofacial and Implant Surgery in 2015 and has been a trusted provider of advanced oral care. She graduated from Glenbrook South High School, the University of Illinois-Chicago School of Dentistry, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha College of Medicine, where she completed her oral and maxillofacial surgery specialty training. Dr. Drobny holds numerous certifications in life support, and her clinical interests include dental implants, corrective jaw surgery, and facial trauma management. Her commitment to excellence and patient care makes her a leader in her field.

All three oral surgeons are Board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. They are Fellows of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and members of prestigious industry associations, such as the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, Illinois and Chicago Societies of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and American Dental Association. They are also on the staff at Ascension Alexian Brothers in Elk Grove Village.

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