Head & Neck Cancer Awareness – Best Head & Neck Cancer Specialist in Pune
Head & neck cancers usually begin in the squamous cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck, such as the mouth, throat, and voice box. These cancers are medically known as epithelial cell carcinomas. Less commonly, cancers can start in the salivary glands, sinuses, muscles, or nerves of the head and neck.
Dr. Vidita Powle Danait, a Consultant Surgical Oncologist in Pune, provides expert care and advanced treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery.
Dr. Vidita Powle Danait, a Consultant Surgical Oncologist in Pune, provides expert care and advanced treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery.
Types of Head & Neck Cancers
Head & neck cancers can develop in various regions, including:
Head & neck cancers can develop in various regions, including:
Includes the lips, tongue (front two-thirds), gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth, and small areas behind the wisdom teeth.
Throat (Pharyngeal) Cancer
The pharynx is a hollow tube connecting the back of the nose to the esophagus. It has three parts:
Nasopharynx – the upper part behind the nose
Oropharynx – the middle part behind the mouth, including the tonsils and base of the tongue
Hypopharynx – the lower part near the larynx (voice box)
Oropharynx – the middle part behind the mouth, including the tonsils and base of the tongue
Hypopharynx – the lower part near the larynx (voice box)
Cancers in the pharynx are collectively called pharyngeal cancers. The most common types include:
Oropharyngeal Cancer – affects the middle throat (tonsils, base of tongue)
Laryngeal Cancer – affects the voice box and lower pharynx
Laryngeal Cancer – affects the voice box and lower pharynx
Each type has distinct symptoms and treatment options, and early detection is crucial.
Voice Box (Laryngeal) Cancer
The larynx is a short passageway formed by cartilage just below the pharynx. It includes the vocal cords and allows speech.
Salivary Gland Cancer
Cancers may form in the parotid, submandibular, or minor salivary glands.
Thyroid and Parathyroid Tumors
Some cancers may start in the thyroid or parathyroid glands and may be treated with robotic-assisted surgery for better precision.
Signs and Symptoms of Head & Neck Cancer
General Symptoms
Many head and neck cancers share some common symptoms like:
- Persistent lumps in the neck
- Sore that doesn’t heal
- Hoarseness or voice change
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Unexplained mouth sores or patches
Symptoms Specific to Each Type
Cancer Type
Typical Symptoms
Oral Cavity (Mouth) Cancer
Mouth sores, red/white patches, bleeding, pain while eating
Tongue Cancer
Pain or ulcer on tongue, difficulty speaking, swelling
Throat (Pharyngeal) Cancer
Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, feeling of something stuck, ear pain
Voice Box (Laryngeal) Cancer
Hoarseness, voice change, throat pain, cough
Nasal Cavity / Sinus Cancer
Nasal obstruction, nosebleeds, unusual discharge
Salivary Gland Cancer
Swelling near jaw or cheek, facial numbness, pain
Thyroid / Parathyroid Tumors
Lump in the neck, sometimes difficulty swallowing or breathing
Ear / Temporal Bone Cancer
Ear pain, discharge, hearing loss
Signs and Symptoms of Head & Neck Cancer
- Stage I & II: Small tumors that have not spread; usually curable.
- Stage III & IV: Larger tumors or tumors that have spread to lymph nodes; may require complex treatment.
- Metastatic Tumors: Spread to other body parts; treated to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Treatment Options
Surgery:
Traditional surgical approaches to remove tumors, sometimes combined with reconstructive techniques.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery:
For selected cases of thyroid, parathyroid, tongue, and throat cancers, robotic-assisted surgery provides greater precision, minimally invasive access, and quicker recovery.
Radiotherapy & Chemotherapy:
Used depending on the stage and type of cancer.
Reconstructive Surgery:
For functional and cosmetic restoration after tumor removal.
Consultant Surgical Oncologist Services in Pune
Dr. Vidita Powle Danait is a Consultant Surgical Oncologist in Pune and an expert Head & Neck Cancer Specialist. She provides personalized treatment plans, advanced surgical techniques, and robotic-assisted procedures where appropriate.
Why Choose Dr. Vidita Powle Danait:
- Expertise in all types of head and neck cancers
- Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery options
- Focus on patient-centered care and recovery
Early Detection and Awareness
Early awareness and regular screening improve outcomes significantly. If you notice persistent symptoms such as lumps, sores, or voice changes, consult a Consultant Surgical Oncologist in Pune immediately.