Head and Neck Surgical Oncology

Head and Neck Surgical Oncology is a super specialized field focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancers that affect the head and neck region. This area encompasses a wide variety of cancers, including those of the oral cavity, throat, larynx (voice box), nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, salivary glands, thyroid, parathyroid gland and skin. Early detection and effective treatment are crucial in managing these cancers, and surgical intervention plays a central role in the care process.

Types of Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers can arise from different tissues, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common type. Others are Adenocarcinoma, Adenocystic carcinoma and mucoepidermoid Carcinoma. Risk factors include smoking, alcohol use, and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). Symptoms may include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the neck, or changes in the voice.

The Role of Surgery in Treatment

Surgical treatment is often the first line of action in managing head and neck cancers, aimed at removing tumors, preventing the spread of cancer, and restoring function. Depending on the cancer's location, size, and stage, various surgical procedures may be necessary.

Key Surgical Procedures Include:

Thyroid surgery- Thyroid cancer is one of the most common cancers in the head and neck region, and surgery plays a key role in its treatment. Depending on the size and location of the cancer, as well as whether it has spread, surgery options may include:

• Thyroidectomy: The removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. A total thyroidectomy involves the removal of the entire thyroid gland, while a lobectomy or hemithyroidectomy removes only the affected lobe of the thyroid.
• Lymph Node Dissection: In some cases, thyroid cancer can spread to the lymph nodes in the neck. If cancerous lymph nodes are detected, a neck dissection may be performed to remove affected nodes, ensuring the best chance of controlling the cancer.
• Minimally Invasive Approaches: In certain situations, we offer minimally invasive techniques, including robotic thyroid surgery, to reduce scarring and shorten recovery times.

After thyroid surgery, patients may need hormone replacement therapy to compensate for the loss of thyroid function.

Our team specializes in treating both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) thyroid conditions, including goiter and thyroid cancer. Using the latest technology, we perform thyroid surgeries with minimal cosmetic scars and ensure optimal outcomes with intra-operative nerve monitoring to preserve vital structures such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve and superior laryngeal nerve.

Parathyroid Gland (Adenoma) Surgery

The parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands located behind the thyroid that regulate calcium levels in the body through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of one or more of these glands when they develop tumors, often leading to a condition called hyperparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism can result in high calcium levels in the blood, causing symptoms such as fatigue, bone pain, kidney stones, and digestive problems.

• Indications for Parathyroidectomy: Parathyroidectomy is typically indicated for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, where a tumor causes excessive hormone production. Surgery is usually performed when conservative treatments fail or when the patient experiences symptoms related to high calcium levels.
• Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy: In cases of benign parathyroid tumors, minimally invasive techniques can often be used. This involves a small incision and the targeted removal of the affected parathyroid gland, often aided by imaging techniques to locate the abnormal gland.
• Traditional Parathyroidectomy: If the tumor is larger or involves more than one gland, a traditional approach may be required. This involves a slightly larger incision and a more extensive examination of all four parathyroid glands to ensure the correct gland is removed.

We adhere to the latest clinical guidelines and utilize state-of-the-art technology to perform parathyroid gland surgeries. This includes intraoperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) level sampling and frozen section analysis to ensure accurate tumor identification and optimal surgical outcomes.

Most patients recover quickly after parathyroidectomy, with an improvement in symptoms as calcium levels return to normal. We monitor your calcium levels closely and provide follow-up care to ensure that the surgery successfully resolves the condition

Salivary Gland Tumor Surgeries

The parotid gland, which is one of the major salivary glands located near the jaw. Cancerous tumors can develop in this gland, and surgery is typically required for their removal. Parotidectomy is a delicate procedure, as the facial nerve runs through the parotid gland, and care must be taken to avoid nerve damage during surgery.

• Total Parotidectomy: In cases where the tumor involves deeper parts of the gland, or if cancer has spread, a total parotidectomy may be required. This involves removing the entire gland and carefully protecting the facial nerve.
• Superficial Parotidectomy: This involves the removal of the outer part of the parotid gland while preserving the facial nerve. It is commonly performed when the tumor is confined to the outer part of the gland.

Our department specializes in the surgical management of parotid tumors (parotidectomy) and submandibular gland tumours employing advanced techniques to achieve superior cosmetic results. We utilize minimally invasive approaches, including intraoperative nerve monitoring and facelift incisions (cosmetic incisions), to minimize scarring. Our team is skilled in treating both benign (e.g., pleomorphic adenomas) and malignant salivary gland tumors.

Oral Cancer Surgeries

Oral cavity cancers can affect the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, and other areas inside the mouth. Treatment often involves a combination of surgery and other therapies such as radiation or chemotherapy. Surgical options for oral cavity cancers include:

• Resection of Tumors: The primary treatment for oral cancers involves removing the cancerous tissue. This can be done via traditional open surgery or, in certain cases, through minimally invasive approaches such as robotic-assisted surgery.
• Mandibulectomy or Maxillectomy: If the cancer has spread to the jawbone (mandible) or upper jaw (maxilla), part or all of the affected bone may need to be removed. This can result in significant changes to the structure of the mouth, and reconstructive surgery may be necessary afterward.
• Reconstructive Surgery: For large tumors, especially those affecting the tongue, jaw, or palate, reconstructive surgery may be needed to restore the form and function of the mouth. This may involve tissue grafts from other parts of the body (free tissue flaps), which are used to rebuild the affected area.

We offer comprehensive surgical care for oral cancers, including tongue cancer, oral cavity cancers, buccal mucosa cancer, jaw cancer, and other related malignancies. With the use of cutting-edge technology, we ensure accurate diagnosis and effective reconstructive procedures. Our reconstructive options include microvascular free tissue flaps and pedicled flaps, providing optimal functional and aesthetic restoration.

Laryngeal (Voice Box) Cancer Surgeries

Our team is highly skilled in performing a wide range of surgeries for laryngeal cancers (voice box cancers), utilizing the latest surgical technology, including laser surgery. Surgical options include partial laryngectomy and total laryngectomy, followed by a focus on voice rehabilitation to support the recovery of communication abilities.

Sino-nasal tumours

We specialize in the surgical treatment of sinonasal tumors, including all types of paranasal sinus tumors, such as maxillary sinus tumors. These tumors are managed through advanced surgical techniques, utilizing the latest technology to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Different surgeries include total maxillectomy, partial maxillectomy, endoscopic maxillectomy and cranio-facial resection.

Neck Tumor Surgeries

Our department is equipped to treat a wide range of neck tumors and lumps, including schwannomas, carotid body tumors, and neural tumors. We employ minimally invasive surgical techniques combined with state-of-the-art technology to deliver optimal results with minimal patient discomfort.

Skull Base Surgeries

We offer comprehensive care for skull base tumors, working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. Our expertise includes the treatment of parapharyngeal space tumors, carotid body tumors, and other complex conditions of the skull base. We utilize the latest advancements in surgical technology to ensure precise and effective treatment.

Multidisciplinary Team

We have a highly skilled multidisciplinary Head & Neck Surgery team, comprising experts in Reconstructive Surgery, Neurosurgery, Vascular Surgery, and Thoracic Surgery, all of whom collaborate to manage complex cases with precision and expertise.

Advanced Technologies

• Intraoperative Nerve Monitoring: Our facility is equipped with the latest intraoperative nerve monitoring technology, which is utilized to preserve critical cranial nerves during surgery. This includes safeguarding the facial nerve during parotidectomy and the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroidectomy, as well as other key structures during neck surgeries.
• Microscopes: We employ state-of-the-art microscopes for all microvascular surgeries, ensuring exceptional precision and optimal outcomes in complex procedures.
• Video Endoscopes: We utilize cutting-edge video endoscopy for minimally invasive surgeries, providing enhanced visualization and accuracy, which contribute to better patient outcomes and faster recovery times.
• State-of-the-Art Operating Rooms: Our operating rooms are equipped with the most modern surgical technologies, ensuring the highest standards of care and safety for all surgical procedures.

Why Choose Head and Neck Surgical Oncology?

The head and neck region is complex, and treatment requires specialized expertise. Our team of experienced surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists works together to ensure that patients receive the most effective and personalized treatment plan. We focus not only on eliminating cancer but also on maintaining quality of life by preserving important functions such as speech, swallowing, and facial appearance.

Academics -

"The Division of Head & Neck Surgery and Oncology has approved two fellowships (FNB) approved by the National Board. Seminars, Journal Clubs, Examinations, and Multidisciplinary Tumor Board are part of the program.

Get the Care You Need
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with head or neck cancer, early intervention and specialized care are essential. Our team is committed to providing you with comprehensive care, from diagnosis through treatment and recovery, to ensure the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our expert head and neck surgical oncologists.