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Throat Cancer Treatment
Throat Cancer Treatment
Treatment overview:
Treatment of throat cancer depends on the seriousness and extent of the condition. Treatment is usually tailored individually. The main aim is to the preserve patient's ability to speak and eat while maintaining a normal healthy life.
What are the treatment options for throat cancer?
- Surgery: Surgery is done in cases of small and localized cancer. Cancer which is advanced and has spread to the surrounding areas requires more extensive surgery which may involve removal of parts of jaw, throat, mouth or voice box. Reconstructive surgery may help in restoring the appearance and functions, e.g. swallowing and speech.
- Radiation therapy: Radiotherapy uses high energy rays to kill the cancer cells. It usually follows the surgery or may be used in combination with chemotherapy in advanced throat cancer. It can be used as the primary treatment in small throat cancers.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy in advanced cases. Powerful drugs are given which kills the cancer cells left behind after surgery or radiation therapy.
What is the success rate of throat cancer treatment?
Early diagnosis and treatment has a better prognosis. Small and localized cancer can be successfully removed by surgery. Once the cancer cells have spread beyond the head and neck region treatment becomes difficult in throat cancer.
How much time is required?
Throat cancer surgery may take 2- 3 hours depending on the extent of cancer .Patient is usually required to stay for 3-4 days in the hospital.
What type of anesthesia will be given?
Surgery is done under general anesthesia
What are the possible common complications?
Risk associated with anesthesia, Bleeding, infection, nerve injury associated with surgery, Risks due to radiation therapy like skin irritation or discoloration, Risk due to chemotherapy, such as nausea, hair loss, diarrhea, fatigue
What should be cared?
Regular follow up is required to check for any recurrence of cancer. Some patient in whom extensive surgery is done may require prosthetic devices to help chew, swallow or speak. Feeding and breathing tubes may also be required in more advanced cases which need regular monitoring. A good nutrition plan is required that includes easy to chew and swallow foods.
