Head & Neck Cancer Care & Radiation Management in Udaipur

Understanding the Disease & Treatment Mechanics

Treating head and neck cancers requires balancing oncological cure with preserving critical human functions: swallowing, speech, taste, and airway stability. Advanced IMRT and 3D-CRT techniques allow delivery of high curative radiation doses (66-70 Gy) to the primary tumor and involved cervical lymph nodes while strictly sparing salivary glands (parotids), spinal cord, mandible, and swallowing muscles.

Treatment Approach & Clinical Protocols

All patients undergo pre-treatment dental clearance to treat active tooth decay and prevent osteoradionecrosis. A custom thermoplastic mask immobilizes the head and neck during CT simulation and daily treatments. When indicated, weekly low-dose Cisplatin chemotherapy is administered concurrently with radiation to sensitize tumor cells. A dedicated nutrition protocol ensures adequate calorie and fluid intake via oral supplements or temporary feeding tubes (Ryle's tube or PEG) if swallowing becomes difficult.

Common Indications & Applications

• Oral cavity cancers (tongue, cheek/buccal mucosa, gum, palate)
• Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinomas (voice box and throat)
• Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
• Oropharyngeal carcinoma (tonsil and base of tongue)
• Salivary gland tumors and cervical lymph node metastases

What Patients Should Expect

Daily radiation therapy fractions 5 days a week for 6 to 7 weeks, with weekly clinical check-ups, weight monitoring, and nutritional evaluation.

Recovery, Side Effect Management & Hygiene

Expected temporary side effects during weeks 3 to 6 include sore throat (mucositis), dry mouth, thick saliva, and skin redness on the neck. Dr. Rathore prescribes specialized saline-soda gargles, topical anesthetic mouthwashes, mucosal healing agents, and soothing skin emollients. Post-treatment swallowing and neck mobility exercises begin early to prevent long-term tissue stiffness.

Frequently Asked Questions