A head and neck cancer specialist diagnoses and treats cancers affecting areas such as the mouth, tongue, throat, voice box, nose and sinuses, salivary glands and other structures of the head and neck. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, medicines or a combination, depending on the cancer type and stage.

You should consider a medical evaluation for persistent or unexplained symptoms such as a mouth or throat sore that does not heal, a lump in the neck, difficulty or pain while swallowing, persistent hoarseness, unexplained bleeding, persistent ear pain or an unexplained lump or swelling. These symptoms can have causes other than cancer, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by an appropriate healthcare professional.

Possible signs include a persistent mouth or throat sore, a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, persistent sore throat, voice changes or hoarseness, unexplained bleeding, persistent ear pain, or a blocked nose or nosebleeds depending on where the cancer develops. Symptoms vary by the location of the cancer.

Diagnosis may involve a physical examination, review of symptoms and medical history, imaging tests and a biopsy when needed. Additional tests may be performed to determine the type, location and stage of the cancer and to help plan treatment.

Treatment depends on the type, location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy or a combination of treatments.

No. Surgery is one possible treatment, but it is not appropriate for every patient. The recommended treatment depends on factors such as the cancer’s location, type, stage and the patient’s overall health. Some patients may need radiation therapy, medicines or a combination of treatments instead.

A head and neck cancer surgeon specialises in the surgical management of cancers affecting areas such as the mouth, tongue, throat, larynx, nose, sinuses, salivary glands and neck. Depending on the cancer, surgery may involve removing the tumour, treating affected lymph nodes or reconstructing affected tissues.

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is a minimally invasive surgical approach in which selected head and neck tumours can be accessed through the mouth using specialised robotic instruments. Whether TORS is appropriate depends on the location and characteristics of the tumour and the individual patient’s treatment plan.

It can. Depending on the location and extent of the cancer and the treatment required, surgery may affect functions such as speaking, swallowing, chewing or appearance. Reconstructive procedures and rehabilitation may be considered when appropriate to support function and recovery.

Recovery varies considerably depending on the type and extent of surgery, the location of the cancer, other treatments required and the patient’s overall health. Some patients may need rehabilitation for speech, swallowing, nutrition or other functions during recovery. Your surgeon can provide a more specific recovery plan after evaluating your condition.

A second opinion can be helpful if you want to better understand your diagnosis, treatment options or whether surgery is appropriate. It can also help when a treatment decision is complex or you would like another specialist’s perspective before starting treatment.

Look for a specialist with appropriate training and experience in head and neck oncology, access to the diagnostic and treatment services you may need, and a multidisciplinary approach when appropriate. It is also useful to ask about your diagnosis, treatment options, potential side effects, expected recovery and follow-up care before making a treatment decision.

You can contact Peritus Head & Neck Oncology Group to schedule a consultation with our head and neck cancer specialists and surgeons in Gurugram. Bring your previous medical reports, scans, biopsy reports and treatment records, if available.

Yes, patients can seek a second opinion to better understand their diagnosis, treatment options or surgical recommendations. Bring your existing reports, scans, biopsy results and previous treatment records so the specialist can review your case.

Bring your previous medical reports, biopsy or pathology reports, CT/MRI/PET scans and reports, medication list and details of previous treatments or surgeries, if applicable. Having these records can help the specialist understand your diagnosis and treatment history.