Head & Neck Cancer Surgery

Head & Neck cancers refer to a group of heterogeneous and varied cancers originating in the head and neck region. They are amongst the commonest cancers in the Indian sub-continent. The treatment of such cancers is challenging due to the complex anatomy and several important structures lying within the close proximity.

They occur predominantly due to tobacco and alcohol usage. Both smoked and chewable forms of tobacco can cause these cancers. Besides these, betel nut (supari), pan masala, certain viruses like HPV (human papilloma virus) and EBV (Epstein barr virus), UV rays and certain occupational exposures like wood dust are also responsible for causing head and neck cancers.

Head Neck cancer surgery includes cancers of the mouth, nose, sinuses, salivary glands, throat, and lymph nodes in the neck. Most begin in the moist tissues that line the mouth, nose and throat.

Symptoms of Head Neck Cancer Surgery includes:

• A lump or sore that does not heal
• A sore throat that does not go away
• Trouble swallowing
• A change or hoarseness in the voice

Head and neck cancer includes cancers of the mouth, nose, sinuses, salivary glands, throat, and lymph nodes in the neck. Most begin in the moist tissues that line the mouth, nose and throat. Cancer is prevalent in :

• Lip, tongue, salivary glands, gums and other oral cavity tissues such as the inner lining of the cheeks
• Floor of the mouth & Tonsils
• Throat or pharynx
• Voice box or larynx
• Lymph nodes in the neck
• Nasal cavity & Para Nasal Sinuses
• Ear

Oral cancer is the most common type of head neck cancer surgery.If you have a small cancer in your mouth, the surgeon may operate through your open mouth. This means you won’t have any external scars, unless you’re having a neck dissection.  If the cancer is larger, at the back of your mouth or in your throat, the surgeon will usually need to make a cut (incision) so they can reach it. This means that you’ll have a scar afterwards.