Head & Neck Cancer Treatment in Faridabad, Delhi, India

Head & Neck Cancer (H&N cancer) encompasses a diverse group of biologically similar malignancies that develop in the head and neck region, which includes the lips, oral cavity (mouth), nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, larynx (voice box), salivary glands, and thyroid. Globally, H&N cancers rank as the sixth most common cancer, comprising approximately 40% of all cancers in Southeast Asia, including India. Significant advances in surgical, radiation, and medical oncology over recent decades have greatly improved our understanding and management of H&N cancer.

Symptoms of Head & Neck Cancer

The symptoms of head and neck cancers vary depending on the tumor’s location, often leading to late-stage diagnoses. Early detection is crucial, especially for individuals over 40 years old with a history of tobacco and alcohol use. Symptoms lasting more than four weeks warrant immediate consultation with a Head & Neck specialist. Common symptoms include:

• Non-healing sores or ulcers in the mouth, tongue, or lips
• White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or mouth lining
• Difficulty protruding the tongue or opening the mouth fully
• Swelling of the gums, affecting denture fit
• Unexplained bleeding, pain, or numbness in the mouth or cheek
• Thickening of the cheek
• Loose teeth
• Earache or headache
• Persistent sore throat or the sensation of something stuck in the throat
• Slurred speech or hoarseness
• Painful or difficult swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling around the jaw, potentially accompanied by facial numbness or paralysis
• Weight loss
• Enlarging lumps in the neck or blood streaks in sputum

Diagnosis of Head & Neck Cancer

For patients presenting with symptoms indicative of head and neck cancer, the diagnostic process begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional diagnostic tests may include:

• Endoscopy: To visually examine the internal structures.
• Biopsy: To confirm the diagnosis by analyzing tissue samples.
• Molecular Testing: To identify specific genetic mutations within the tumor.
• Imaging Studies: Including X-ray, barium swallows, panoramic radiographs, ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI Scan, and PET-CT Scan to determine the extent of the disease.

Head & Neck Cancer Treatment Modalities

Surgery

The primary objective of surgical intervention is to excise the tumor along with surrounding healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. Lymph nodes are also often removed. Given the intricate anatomy of the head and neck, these surgeries can affect functions like swallowing and speech. However, our team of highly skilled surgeons employs advanced techniques to remove tumors with precision, and they focus on reconstructive surgeries to restore function and appearance.

• Surgical Techniques: Minimally invasive, endoscopic, and open skull base surgeries; microlaryngoscopic surgery.
• Advanced Technology: Utilization of lasers, nerve monitoring systems, and the state-of-the-art Da Vinci XI Robot for minimally invasive surgeries.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells in the head and neck. The department is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the Novalis Tx system, which enables high-precision treatments such as Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS/SRT). These technologies enhance tumor control while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue, improving both treatment outcomes and the patient’s quality of life.

• Specialized Treatments: Intra-operative brachytherapy and SBRT are available for recurrent head and neck cancers.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy plays a vital role in managing head and neck cancers, especially in locally advanced cases. It is often combined with radiation therapy to enhance survival rates. In some instances, neoadjuvant chemotherapy is administered before surgery or radiation, particularly in cancers of the larynx, nasopharynx, and extensive oral cancers. For advanced stages where surgery or radiation is not feasible, chemotherapy, often combined with targeted therapy or immunotherapy, is used to manage the disease.

• Personalized Treatment: Tailored based on the patient’s stage, overall health, and specific molecular characteristics of the tumor.

Radionuclide Therapy

This specialized treatment involves the use of radioactive compounds to diagnose and treat thyroid cancers and rare neuroendocrine tumors.

Expertise in Head & Neck Cancer at Metro Cancer Institute

At Metro Cancer Institute, we offer comprehensive and advanced treatment for head and neck cancers, adhering to international standards. Our multidisciplinary team, forming the Head & Neck Disease Management Group (DMG), is dedicated to delivering personalized and coordinated care.

• Multidisciplinary Team: Includes head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, nuclear medicine specialists, speech and swallowing therapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, prosthodontists, dentists, and rehabilitation specialists.
• Tumor Board Meetings: Regular meetings are held to discuss each case in detail, ensuring that the treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique needs, including post-treatment recovery and rehabilitation.

Personalized Approach to Treatment

At Metro Cancer Institute, we believe in individualized care, understanding that each patient and their disease is unique. Our Oncology experts develop personalized treatment plans based on the collective input of our Tumor Board, which includes specialists from Surgical, Radiation, and Medical Oncology, as well as Pathology and Imaging.

• Treatment Planning: Varies based on tumor stage, location, patient age, general health, and occupation.
• Early-Stage Cancer: Treatment typically involves surgery or radiation, with further therapy considered based on risk factors identified in the final pathology report.
• Locally Advanced Cancer: Often treated with a combination of surgery, radiation, and possibly chemotherapy.
• Advanced Cancer: For tumors that have spread to vital structures or other parts of the body, the focus is on improving quality of life through palliative therapy, which may include radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the patient’s overall health.

Commitment to Excellence

Metro Cancer Institute is committed to continually improving our treatment protocols and involving patients and caregivers in the treatment process. We strive to provide the best possible care, support, and reassurance throughout the cancer journey, from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.