Mouth Cancer Surgery: What You Need to Know Before and After the Procedure

Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, and throat. It is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. In many cases, surgery is the primary treatment option for mouth cancer, particularly in the early stages. At Galaxy Care Hospital, the Best Mouth Cancer Hospital in Pune, we understand that the thought of undergoing surgery can be daunting, but understanding what to expect before and after the procedure can help alleviate some of the anxiety and ensure a smoother recovery process. This blog by our expert onco surgeons is an attempt to give you an overview of mouth cancer surgery: what you need to know before and after the procedure. Let’s begin.

Before the Mouth Cancer Surgery

Diagnosis and Staging

The first step in the mouth cancer treatment process is a proper diagnosis. Your oncologist will perform a physical examination and recommend imaging tests (such as CT scans or MRI), and a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its stage. The stage of the cancer, which indicates how far it has spread, will help guide the treatment plan.

Preparation

Once the decision for surgery has been made, your oncosurgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. This may include:

• Avoiding certain medications, such as blood thinners or supplements, that could interfere with the surgery or recovery process.
• Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, as these habits can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Having a comprehensive dental evaluation and addressing any necessary dental work before the surgery.
• Discussing potential side effects and post-operative care with your healthcare team.

Common Types of Mouth Cancer Surgery

The specific type of surgery will depend on the location, size, and stage of the cancer. Common surgical procedures for mouth cancer include:

• Tumor resection: Removal of the cancerous tumor and a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it.
• Partial or total glossectomy: Removal of part or all of the tongue.
• Maxillectomy: Removal of part or all of the upper jaw.
• Mandibulectomy: Removal of part or all of the lower jaw.
• Neck dissection: Removal of lymph nodes in the neck region to prevent or treat the spread of cancer.

After the Surgery

Recovery

The recovery period after mouth cancer surgery can be challenging, but it is crucial for the successful treatment of the disease. Here’s what you can expect:

• Pain and discomfort: You may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the surgical area, which can be managed with prescription pain medication.
• Difficulty with eating and drinking: Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may have difficulty swallowing or chewing food, and your diet may need to be modified temporarily.
• Speech and communication challenges: If the surgery involves the removal of part of the tongue or jaw, you may experience temporary or permanent changes in your speech and communication abilities.
• Fatigue: The healing process can be physically and emotionally draining, and it’s essential to get plenty of rest.

Follow-up Care

Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare team are crucial for monitoring your recovery and detecting any potential recurrence of cancer. During these appointments, your doctor may perform physical examinations, imaging tests, and other necessary evaluations.

Rehabilitation and Support

Mouth cancer surgery can have a significant impact on your quality of life, and rehabilitation services play a vital role in helping you regain your ability to eat, speak, and function normally. Your oncosurgeon team may recommend:

• Speech and swallowing therapy: A speech-language pathologist can help you relearn how to speak and swallow effectively after surgery.
• Dietary counselling: A nutritionist can provide guidance on maintaining a balanced diet and managing any eating difficulties.
• Dental rehabilitation: If your surgery involved the removal of teeth or jaw bone, you may require dental implants or prosthetic devices to restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
• Emotional support: Counseling or support groups can help you cope with the emotional challenges associated with mouth cancer and its treatment.

The Bottom Line

Mouth cancer surgery is a complex procedure that requires careful preparation, skilled oncosurgeon, and a dedicated support system. While the recovery process can be challenging, following your healthcare team’s instructions and participating in rehabilitation can help you regain your quality of life and increase your chances of a successful outcome.If you or a loved one is facing mouth cancer, Galaxy Care Hospital, the Best Mouth Cancer Hospital in Pune is well-equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team of highly experienced oncologists and oncosurgeons in Pune. Our comprehensive approach to cancer care ensures that patients receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. Galaxy Care Hospital’s commitment to providing compassionate and innovative care makes us an excellent choice for those seeking mouth cancer surgery in Pune. Feel free to connect with our oncosurgeons for consultation and surgery.