Head and Neck Cancer

Head and Neck Cancer

Overview

Overview

Head and neck cancer includes a group of cancers that develop in areas such as the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, or salivary glands. Common head and neck cancer symptoms include non-healing mouth ulcers, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or lumps in the neck. Early diagnosis plays a vital role in successful recovery. Treatment options, including head and neck cancer surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, are personalised based on the stage and site of the disease to provide the best functional and cosmetic outcomes.

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What is Head and Neck Cancer?

Head and neck cancer is an umbrella term for cancers that develop in the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, or salivary glands. These areas are responsible for essential functions such as speaking, swallowing and breathing, so early diagnosis and the proper treatment are crucial for the best recovery.

In medical terms, head and neck cancer is called squamous cell cancer of the head and neck, because most of these cancers develop from the thin, flat cells (squamous cells) that line the inside of these regions.

The head and neck cancer definition includes many different cancers that affect nearby parts of the face and neck, but they often share similar signs and symptoms. Understanding what are the symptoms of neck cancer helps patients seek timely treatment and improve their chances of a full recovery.

What is Head and Neck Cancer?

What are the Causes and Risk Factors?

Understanding the head and neck cancer causes helps in both prevention and early detection. The most significant risk factors include:

Parotid Cancer

Originates in the parotid gland, one of the major salivary glands, and may require specialized surgical removal due to its proximity to facial nerves.

Thyroid Cancer

Develops in the thyroid gland located in the lower neck, often treated through surgery and guided by precision oncology.

Mandibular Reconstruction

Refers to the surgical reconstruction of the jawbone (mandible) often required after tumor removal to restore facial function and structure.

Oral Cancer

Affects areas such as the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and floor of the mouth, commonly linked to tobacco use and poor oral hygiene.

Hypopharyngeal Cancer

Occurs in the lower part of the throat, near the esophagus, and is often diagnosed at advanced stages due to subtle early symptoms.

Laryngeal Cancer

Involves the voice box, impacting speech, swallowing, and breathing, often treated with a combination of surgery, radiation, or targeted therapy.

Buccal Mucosa Cancer

A subtype of oral cancer affecting the inner lining of the cheeks, frequently associated with tobacco and areca nut use.

Tongue Cancer

Affects the mobile portion or base of the tongue and requires precise surgical management to preserve speech and swallowing functions.

Parotid Cancer

With extensive experience in these areas, Dr. Amit delivers precise, function-preserving surgery with a focus on restoring health, appearance, and quality of life for patients facing head and neck cancers.

What are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer?

What are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer?

Recognising early head and neck cancer symptoms can make a life-changing difference in treatment outcomes.

Typical signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer include:

  • Persistent ulcers or sores in the mouth or throat
  • Swelling or lumps in the neck
  • Difficulty swallowing or speaking
  • Changes in voice or hoarseness
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Non-healing ulcers or sores in the mouth or throat

Early detection significantly improves treatment success rates. If you notice any of these signs, consult a specialist promptly.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors?

Understanding the head and neck cancer causes helps in both prevention and early detection. The most significant risk factors include:

Tobacco use

Tobacco use

  • Cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and snuff are leading causes.
Alcohol consumption

Alcohol consumption

  • Regular heavy drinking multiplies cancer risk.
HPV infection

HPV infection

  • Human Papillomavirus is linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
Poor oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene

  • Chronic irritation and infection can contribute.
Environmental exposure

Environmental exposure

  • Chemicals, dust, and radiation may play a role.
Genetic predisposition

Genetic predisposition

  • Family history of cancer can increase susceptibility.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol are the key pillars of head and neck cancer prevention.

How Is Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosed?

Accurate head and neck cancer diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, imaging studies, and biopsy confirmation. Dr. Amit Chakraborty and his multidisciplinary team follow globally recognised head and neck cancer treatment guidelines to evaluate each patient thoroughly.

Physical Examination

Physical Examination

Inspection and palpation of the neck and oral cavity

Imaging Tests

Imaging Tests

CT scans, MRI, and PET scans to assess tumour extent

Biopsy and FNAC

Biopsy and FNAC

Confirmatory tests to determine cancer type and stage

Staging

Staging

Utilising the TNM system to guide treatment planning

Early diagnosis with accurate staging is vital for selecting the most effective treatment strategies and improving survival rates.

Head and Neck Cancer Treatments

Treatment for head and neck cancers is highly personalised and depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient.

 Head and Neck Cancer Surgery

 Head and Neck Cancer Surgery

Surgery remains one of the most effective methods of cancer removal. Dr Amit Chakraborty specialises in head and neck cancer surgery, ensuring not only complete tumour clearance but also functional and cosmetic reconstruction whenever required.

Techniques such as microvascular free flaps and minimally invasive approaches help restore speech, swallowing, and appearance.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy

Often used alongside surgery or as a standalone treatment in early cases. Modern techniques like IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) precisely target cancer cells while protecting nearby tissues.

Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapy

Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapy

Drugs are used to destroy cancer cells or make radiation more effective. Targeted therapies act on specific molecules involved in tumour growth, offering better results with fewer side effects.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy

An evolving treatment that helps the immune system recognise and fight cancer cells, particularly helpful for recurrent or advanced disease.

Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive Surgery

After cancer removal, mandibular reconstruction, tongue reconstruction, or flap surgeries are performed to restore appearance and essential functions like speech and swallowing.

Head and Neck Cancer Recovery Timeline

Preoperative Preparation

(1–2 weeks)

Preoperative Preparation

Blood tests, imaging, and prehabilitation to prepare for surgery

Advice on diet, exercise, and preparation for recovery

Surgery & Hospital

Stay (Day 0–7)

Surgery & Hospital

Surgery performed with ICU monitoring and pain control

Pain and wound management with encouragement for early movement

Early Recovery

Phase (1–3 weeks)

Early Recovery

Wound healing, swelling control, and start of speech/swallowing exercises

Guidance on nutrition and home care support

Rehabilitation & Follow-Up

(1–2 weeks)

Rehabilitation & Follow-Up

Ongoing functional therapy and routine follow-ups

Coordination with physiotherapy and lifestyle guidance

Long-Term Recovery

(3–12 months)

Long-Term Recovery

Gradual return to normal activities with healing and monitoring

Regular oncology checkups with emotional and survivorship support

Outcomes and Survival Rates

  • Functional Recovery: Most patients regain good facial function after early treatment
  • Survival Rates: Early-stage parotid cancer has a high 5-year survival rate (~90% localised stage), with decreasing rates for advanced disease

Survival depends on tumour type, stage, and individual factors.

Dr. Amit Chakraborty

Dr. Amit Chakraborty

Cancer Surgeon

Why Choose Dr Amit Chakraborty for Head and Neck Cancer Treatment

  • Persistent ulcers or sores in the mouth or throat
  • Extensive experience in managing complex cases with advanced technology
  • Part of multidisciplinary tumour boards, ensuring holistic patient care
  • Focused on optimal functional and cosmetic outcomes

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Treated Cancer Patients

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Complex Surgeries

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Success Rate

FAQs

FAQs

Recent advancements include personalised medicine, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Surgical oncologists handle tumour removal, biopsies, and reconstructive procedures.

Risks include infection, bleeding, and pain.

Many cancers are treatable and curable when detected early.

Recovery times vary depending on surgery type and health.

Together, We Can Fight Against Cancer

Start your journey towards recovery today. Contact us via phone or fill out our appointment form to schedule a consultation with Dr Amit Chakraborty.

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Together, We Can Fight Against Cancer