Head and neck cancers affect the organs responsible for speaking, swallowing, breathing, and facial appearance. These cancers require expert evaluation and carefully planned treatment to achieve cancer control while preserving function and quality of life.
Under the specialised care of Dr. K. Varun Prakash, patients receive comprehensive and personalised surgical management for head and neck cancers using modern, evidence-based techniques.
What Are Head & Neck Cancers?
Head and neck cancers develop in the tissues of the upper aerodigestive tract, including:
- Oral cavity (mouth, tongue, gums, lips)
- Throat (pharynx and larynx/voice box)
- Nose and nasal passages
- Sinuses
- Salivary glands
- Thyroid
Most of these cancers arise from the lining cells of these regions and often require a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
Common Symptoms
Early symptoms may be subtle, but warning signs include:
- Non-healing mouth ulcers
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing
- Lumps or swelling in the neck
- Unexplained bleeding from the mouth or nose
- Changes in speech or voice
Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment success.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
A detailed evaluation is essential for accurate treatment planning and may include:
- Clinical examination of the head and neck region
- Endoscopy for internal assessment
- Imaging studies such as CT, MRI, or PET scans
- Biopsy to confirm cancer diagnosis
- Staging to assess the extent of disease
- Changes in speech or voice
Dr. K. Varun Prakash ensures a precise diagnosis before initiating treatment.
Surgical Management of Head & Neck Cancers
Surgery is often a primary treatment for head and neck cancers. The goal is complete tumor removal while preserving essential functions. Surgical options may include:
- Tumor excision with safe margins
- Lymph node removal (neck dissection)
- Reconstructive surgery to restore form and function
- Use of organ-preserving techniques when appropriate
Each surgery is customised to the patient's condition and needs.
Comprehensive Cancer Care Treatment may involve a combination of:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted or immunotherapy
- Care is coordinated with a multidisciplinary cancer team for optimal outcomes
- Recovery and Rehabilitation
Post-treatment care focuses on:
- Speech and swallowing rehabilitation
- Nutritional support
- Pain and wound management
- Regular follow-up for long-term cancer control
- Patient comfort, recovery, and quality of life remain top priorities.