Head and neck cancer surgery is a medical procedure to remove and treat cancerous tumors in the head and neck region. These types of cancer can occur in areas such as the mouth, tongue, lips, larynx, tonsils, nose, ears, face, neck and thyroid glands. Head and neck cancer surgery uses a variety of techniques depending on the location and size of the tumor, the spread of the cancer and the patient’s general health.
Head and neck cancer surgery should be planned specifically for each patient. Surgical options are determined by the type, stage and location of the cancer. The treatment plan may be combined with other treatment modalities such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy by a multidisciplinary healthcare team. Surgery for head and neck cancer can be an effective option for controlling or treating cancer in the early stages, but surgical outcomes should be evaluated taking into account the patient’s overall health and complementary methods of treatment.
How is Head and Neck Cancer Surgery Performed?
The techniques used in head and neck cancer surgery are mainly as follows:
- Resection Surgery: One of the most common types of head and neck cancer surgery is resection surgery. In this method, the cancerous tumor and surrounding healthy tissues are removed. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, the surgeon may perform a partial or complete resection. Partial resection means removing part of the tumor, while complete resection involves removing the tumor completely.
- Lymph node dissection in the neck: When head and neck cancer spreads, it can often spread to the lymph nodes in the neck. In this case, the surgeon may remove some or all of the lymph nodes in the neck. This is important to control and treat the spread of cancer.
- Laser Surgery: Laser technology is increasingly used in the treatment of head and neck cancers. Laser surgery uses high-energy laser light to remove tumors by cutting or vaporizing them. This method offers a minimally invasive option for removing tumors in sensitive areas.
- Endoscopic Surgery: Endoscopic surgery is used to remove some tumors in the head and neck region. In this method, an endoscope (a long, thin tube) is used to access the tumor and remove it with minimal tissue damage. Endoscopic surgery can provide less tissue trauma, shorter healing times and less visible scars.
- Reconstructive Surgery: After removal of the cancerous tissue, reconstructive surgery is sometimes required to compensate for the loss of tissue in the head and neck area. This can be done using various grafts (for example, skin, muscle or bone grafts) or flaps (pieces of living tissue). Reconstructive surgery can help restore functionality and aesthetics.
Is Surgical Treatment of Cancer Necessary?
The need for surgical treatment of cancer is determined on a case-by-case basis. Head and neck cancer surgery by Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) is evaluated and recommended depending on the patient’s type of cancer, stage, tumor location and other factors. The need for surgery for head and neck cancer is determined by the following factors:
- Type and Stage of Cancer: There are many different types of cancer in the head and neck region, including several types of cancer of the mouth, tongue, larynx, tonsils and thyroid. The type and stage of cancer has a major impact on the need for surgery. While early-stage cancers can usually be treated with surgery, surgery can be combined with other treatment methods in advanced cancers.
- Tumor Location: The exact location and extent of the tumor in the head and neck region is also important. Surgery may be necessary if the tumor contacts or compresses nearby important structures. Tumors, especially in critical areas such as the larynx or pharynx, may require careful surgical planning.
- Suitability for Surgery: Surgery should be appropriate depending on the overall health status of the patient. Patients who are not suitable for surgery may be referred to alternative treatment options due to the risks of surgery.
- Treatment Outcomes: Head and neck cancer surgery outcomes and quality of life are taken into consideration. Surgery is more likely to be considered if it is likely to provide a better outcome compared to other treatment modalities.
- Reconstructive Needs: It is also assessed whether reconstructive surgery is needed to compensate for tissue loss after surgery. Following removal of the tumor, reconstruction can help the patient regain functionality and quality of life.
- Patient’s Preferences: Finally, the patient’s own preferences and psychological state are also taken into account. Some patients may prefer surgery, while others may prefer less invasive treatment options.
What are the Risks of Cancer Surgery?
The main risks of cancer surgery are:
- Nerve Damage There may be a risk of damage to the surrounding nerves during the surgical procedure. This can lead to consequences such as facial paralysis or damage to the vocal cords.
- Tissue Loss: While cancerous tissue is removed during surgery, surrounding healthy tissues may also be damaged. This can have an impact on functional or aesthetic results.
- Complications of Reconstruction: If reconstructive surgery is required, the use of grafts or flaps can trigger some complications. There may be problems such as graft or flap rejection, infection or suture failure.
- Swallowing and Speech Problems: Surgery in the head and neck area can lead to swallowing or speech problems. These problems may require rehabilitation and treatment.
- Hematoma (Blood Collection): Blood collections after surgery can cause swelling and discomfort in the area.
How Many Hours Does Cancer Surgery Take?
The duration of cancer surgery can vary depending on many factors. Head and neck cancer surgery is mainly as follows according to techniques and features:
- Laryngectomy (laryngectomy): This surgery to treat laryngeal cancer can usually take 6 to 8 hours. When the larynx is completely or partially removed, this can be a complex procedure.
- Oral Cavity Surgery: Surgical treatment of oral cancers can take 2 to 6 hours, depending on the type of surgery and the location of the tumor. Such surgeries may involve the tongue, lips, cheeks or other parts of the mouth.
- Neck Dissection Surgeries to remove lymph nodes in the neck to control the spread of cancer in the neck lymph nodes can take 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
- Thyroid Surgery: Thyroid surgery to treat thyroid cancer may involve removing all or part of the thyroid gland. This surgery can take 2 to 4 hours.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Reconstructive surgery to compensate for tissue loss after surgery may require additional time. Reconstructive procedures can further extend the total duration of the surgery.
What is the Difference Between Medical Oncology and Surgical Oncology?
The difference between medical oncology and surgical oncology is quite clear. Medical oncology is a branch that specializes in cancer treatment, while surgical oncology is a field that focuses on surgically removing cancerous tumors. Medical oncologists treat cancer with drugs (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, etc.) or radiation therapy, while surgical oncologists are responsible for surgically removing cancerous tissue. Otolaryngology (ENT) cancer surgery is included in surgical oncology.
