Expert Head and Neck Cancer Specialist
Head and neck cancers affect areas vital for speech, swallowing, and breathing. Treatment requires precision, careful staging, and thoughtful planning to ensure both tumour control and functional preservation.
Dr. Snita Sinukumar provides personalised head and neck cancer treatment in Pune, with clear treatment pathways tailored to each stage and tumour type.
Our approach includes:
- Detailed clinical evaluation
- Accurate imaging-based staging
- Precision surgical treatment
- Coordinated chemotherapy and radiation care
- Regular follow-up and recovery support
What Are Head and Neck Cancers?
Head and neck cancers arise from the lining of the upper aerodigestive tract. In India, oral and throat cancers are among the most common, often linked to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and delayed diagnosis.
Early consultation with a cancer doctor for head and neck cancer in Pune significantly improves treatment outcomes and reduces complications.
Types of Head and Neck Cancers Managed
A wide range of head and neck cancers are treated with careful evaluation and stage-based planning.
- Oral Cancer (Mouth Cancer): Affecting lips, tongue, inner cheeks, gums, and floor of mouth. Non-healing ulcers beyond 2–3 weeks require evaluation.
- Throat Cancer: Including cancers of the tonsils, base of tongue, and pharynx. Persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing should not be ignored.
- Laryngeal (Voice Box) Cancer: Often presents with prolonged hoarseness or voice change.
- Thyroid Cancer: Typically presents as a painless neck swelling and requires distinct treatment planning.
- Salivary Gland and Sinus Cancers: Less common but require specialist surgical expertise due to complex anatomy.
Symptoms That Require Evaluation
Symptoms depend on tumour location but commonly include:
- A persistent mouth sore or ulcer
- Pain or difficulty while swallowing
- Change in voice or prolonged hoarseness
- Swelling or lump in the neck
- Persistent nasal blockage or bleeding
- Ear pain without infection
If symptoms last more than two to three weeks, specialist evaluation is recommended.
Diagnostic and Staging Process
Precise staging helps determine the safest and most effective treatment plan. Assessment may involve:
- Detailed oral and neck examination
- Endoscopic visualisation of the tumour
- Biopsy for confirmation
- CT, MRI, or PET imaging
- Laboratory investigations
This structured evaluation defines tumour size, lymph node involvement, and distant spread.
Treatment Options for Head and Neck Cancer
Treatment is individualised based on tumour site, stage, and overall health.
- Surgical Management: Surgery aims to remove the tumour completely while preserving vital functions such as speech and swallowing whenever possible.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation may be used alone in early stages or combined with surgery for advanced disease.
- Chemotherapy: Often recommended alongside radiation in advanced cancers to enhance treatment effectiveness.
- Reconstructive and Rehabilitation Support: Advanced reconstructive techniques and rehabilitation help restore appearance and function after treatment.
Dr. Snita Sinukumar for Head and Neck Cancer Care?
- Focused expertise in complex head and neck malignancies
- Evidence-based, stage-specific treatment planning
- Advanced surgical precision with functional preservation
- Multidisciplinary oncology coordination
- Patient-centred, compassionate approach
- Consultations available at Kharadi and Apollo Hospitals, Pune