About Throat Cancer Surgery
Key Highlights
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Aims for complete removal of cancerous tissue with clear margins.Can be performed using minimally invasive techniques like TORS for select tumors, leading to less pain and faster recovery.Performed by a specialized surgical oncologist with expertise in head and neck anatomy.Often curative for early-stage throat cancers.Focuses on preserving critical functions like swallowing and speech whenever possible.Integrates with other treatments like radiation for a comprehensive approach./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma or other malignancies of the larynx, pharynx, or tonsils.
- Early-stage (Stage I or II) throat cancer where surgery is the primary treatment.
- Locally advanced cancer (Stage III or IV) as part of combined modality treatment.
- A tumor that has not responded adequately to radiation or chemotherapy.
- A recurrent cancer after previous treatment.
- A biopsy-confirmed malignant lesion that is accessible and resectable.
How to prepare
- Complete diagnostic workup including endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging (CT/MRI/PET scan) for staging.
- Pre-operative counseling with the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and possibly a speech-language pathologist.
- Nutritional assessment; a feeding tube may be placed pre-operatively if significant swallowing impairment is anticipated.
- Smoking and alcohol cessation is strongly recommended to improve healing.
- Management of any other medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery as per anesthesia guidelines.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding, infection, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or permanent need for a feeding tube.
- Changes or loss of voice (hoarseness or aphonia), especially with laryngectomy.
- Damage to nearby structures like nerves, leading to shoulder weakness or numbness.
- Formation of a fistula (an abnormal connection) in the neck.
- Scarring and changes in physical appearance of the neck.
- Risk of recurrence of cancer.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for monitoring, pain management, and wound care.
- If a tracheostomy tube is placed, care and eventual removal will be managed by the medical team.
- Working closely with a speech-language pathologist to rehabilitate speech and swallowing.
- Gradual transition from tube feeding to oral diet as swallowing improves.
- Regular follow-up appointments for wound checks and surveillance for recurrence.
- Adherence to a tailored plan for physical activity and rest; avoiding strenuous activity for several weeks.
- Emotional and psychological support is often recommended during the recovery period.
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Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full functional rehabilitation
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering throat cancer surgery in Thailand, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Thailand with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform throat cancer surgery. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for throat cancer surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | USD 4,725 – USD 22,680 | 7-14 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full functional rehabilitation | Know More |
| Thailand | USD 4,800 – USD 26,880 | 7-14 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full functional rehabilitation | Know More |
| South Korea | USD 4,800 – USD 26,880 | 7-14 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full functional rehabilitation | Know More |
| India | USD 2,728 – USD 13,093 | 7-14 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full functional rehabilitation | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 20,154 – USD 96,741 | 7-14 days | ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full functional rehabilitation | Know More |
As a young professional with a...
As a young professional with a hectic schedule, Dr. Acharya’s team accommodated my follow-ups efficiently without ever making me feel rushed. His balance of expertise and empathy is rare in surgical fields.