Oral Cancer & Mouth Cancer Treatment in Chennai

The main risk factors for oral cancer in India are tobacco use (smoking and chewing), betel nut/paan consumption, alcohol, and HPV infection. Oral submucous fibrosis from areca nut chewing significantly increases risk. Early detection through regular dental check-ups is crucial for people with these risk factors.

Yes, oral cancer is highly curable when detected early. Stage I and II oral cancers have cure rates exceeding 80-90% with appropriate treatment. Even advanced cancers can be treated effectively with surgery, reconstruction, and adjuvant therapy. Dr. Vidhyadharan's expertise in comprehensive treatment maximizes cure rates.

Functional outcomes depend on tumor size and location. With minimally invasive techniques (TORS, laser) for early cancers, most patients maintain normal speech and swallowing. For advanced cancers requiring reconstruction, Dr. Vidhyadharan's reconstructive expertise and post-operative rehabilitation help restore function. Most patients return to near-normal eating and understandable speech.

Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) offers magnified 3D vision and precise instrument control, allowing tumor removal through the mouth without external incisions or jaw-splitting. Benefits include shorter hospital stay (3-4 days vs 2 weeks), faster recovery, less pain, better swallowing outcomes, and no visible scars. Dr. Vidhyadharan was trained in TORS at Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia.

Recovery varies by procedure. Minimally invasive surgery (TORS/laser): 1-2 weeks to resume normal diet and activities. Major resection with reconstruction: 2-4 weeks in hospital, 2-3 months for full recovery. Speech and swallowing therapy accelerates functional recovery. Dr. Vidhyadharan's team provides comprehensive rehabilitation support.

Adjuvant treatment depends on final pathology findings. Early-stage cancers with clear margins often need surgery alone. Advanced cancers or those with high-risk features (positive margins, lymph node involvement, nerve invasion) typically require post-operative radiation with or without chemotherapy. The tumor board recommends the optimal plan.

Many oral cancers can be treated without mandibulectomy (jaw removal). Dr. Vidhyadharan uses TORS and laser surgery for tumors not invading bone. When bone is minimally involved, marginal mandibulectomy preserves jaw continuity. Only tumors deeply invading bone require segmental resection with immediate reconstruction to restore jaw structure and function.

Success rates at specialized centers like THANC Hospital match international standards. Early oral cancer (Stage I-II): 80-90% five-year survival. Locally advanced cancer (Stage III-IV): 50-70% depending on specific factors. Dr. Vidhyadharan's fellowship training, advanced surgical techniques, and multidisciplinary approach optimize outcomes.

Cost depends on the type of surgery (minimally invasive vs reconstruction), hospital stay duration, and adjuvant treatment needs. THANC Hospital offers comprehensive oral cancer care with transparent pricing. Insurance coverage is available for cancer treatment. Detailed cost estimates are provided after consultation and staging workup.

White patches (leukoplakia) are pre-cancerous lesions that may transform to cancer in 5-15% of cases. Red patches (erythroplakia) have higher malignant potential. Any persistent mouth patch lasting more than 3 weeks needs evaluation. Dr. Vidhyadharan can assess the lesion, perform biopsy if needed, and treat with laser excision to prevent cancer development.

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) from betel nut/areca chewing causes progressive mouth tightness and significantly increases oral cancer risk. Early OSMF can improve with cessation of habits and medical treatment. Advanced fibrosis requires surgical release. Regular surveillance is essential as OSMF patients have 7-13% lifetime cancer risk. Stopping the habit is most critical.

Follow-up schedule: Monthly for first year, every 2-3 months for second year, every 3-4 months for years 3-5, then annually. Each visit includes examination for recurrence, imaging as needed, and management of treatment side effects. Dental care and nutritional assessment are part of comprehensive follow-up.