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Head & Neck Surgical Oncology

Oral Cancer Surgery in Bangalore

Expert diagnosis, resection & jaw reconstruction — from early lesions for laser treatment to complex cases requiring microvascular free-flap repair.

5000+
Complex Surgeries
130+
Publications
<0.5%
Mortality Rate
72–96 hrs
Time to OR

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to malignant tumours arising in the mouth, tongue, lips, cheeks, floor of mouth, hard palate, or gums. When detected early, survival rates exceed 95%.

Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol, betel nut/pan chewing, dental trauma, immunosuppression or prior organ transplant, and prolonged UV exposure.

Early Warning Signs: A sore or ulcer that doesn't heal in 3 weeks, a white or red patch inside the mouth, unexplained tooth loosening, difficulty swallowing, or a lump in the neck.
  • Persistent mouth ulcer (>3 weeks)
  • White patch (leukoplakia) or red patch (erythroplakia)
  • Lump or thickening in cheek, lip, or tongue
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Unexplained weight loss or hoarseness
  • Persistent neck node enlargement
300–350
Major H&N surgeries/year
<5%
Complication rate
5–7 days
Average hospital stay
72–96 hrs
Diagnosis to OR

Treatment Approach

Wide Local Excision

Complete removal of the tumour with clear surgical margins — the cornerstone of cure for early-stage oral cancer.

Neck Dissection

Selective or radical neck dissection to remove at-risk lymph nodes and prevent regional spread.

Jaw Reconstruction

Fibula free-flap microvascular reconstruction to restore jaw bone and oral function after mandibulectomy.

Soft Tissue Repair

Tongue and cheek reconstruction using local, regional, or free flaps to preserve speech and swallowing.

Your Treatment Journey

1

Initial Consultation (Day 1)

Clinical examination, biopsy review, imaging (CT/MRI/PET-CT), and staging. Most patients seen within 48–72 hours of referral.

2

Multidisciplinary Tumour Board Review

Case reviewed by surgical oncologist, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, and radiologist for optimal treatment planning.

3

Pre-operative Workup (Days 2–5)

Anaesthetic evaluation, dental clearance, nutrition assessment, and pre-op counselling.

4

Surgery

Resection with reconstruction as needed. 2–3 hrs for simple excisions; 8–12 hrs for complex jaw reconstruction.

5

Post-op Recovery (5–7 days)

ICU monitoring, speech therapy, dietician support, and wound care before discharge.

6

Adjuvant Treatment & Follow-up

Radiation/chemotherapy as indicated. Structured follow-up every 3 months for the first 2 years.

Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Narayana Subramaniam

MBBS, MS, MRCSEd, MCh, FICRS, TransOral Robotic Visiting Scholar University of Pennsylvania, Fellowship in Head and Neck Surgery Chris O'Brien Lifehouse Hospital Sydney

Lead Consultant — Head & Neck Surgery & Oncology & Skull Base Surgery, Bangalore

  • 130+ peer-reviewed publications
  • Fellowship trained in head and neck oncology & microvascular surgery
  • Innovator of transoral robotic surgery in India
  • ₹30Cr+ in research funding
  • 20+ national and international awards
  • Invited faculty at RCSEd, EACMFS, IFHNOS, IAOO

When to Refer

  • Non-healing oral ulcer beyond 3 weeks
  • Biopsy-confirmed oral squamous cell carcinoma
  • Failed prior surgery or recurrent disease
  • Complex cases requiring jaw reconstruction
  • Second opinion on treatment planning
  • MVT agency patients requiring specialist care
  • International patients seeking surgery in India

Common Questions

Can oral cancer be cured?
Yes — when detected at Stage I or II, 5-year survival rates exceed 80%. Early diagnosis is the single most important factor.
Will I lose my jaw after surgery?
Not necessarily. We reconstruct the mandible using a fibula free-flap — transplanting leg bone with its blood supply. Most patients regain near-normal appearance and function.
How long is the hospital stay?
Simple excisions: 2–3 days. Complex reconstruction: 7–10 days including 1–2 days ICU for flap monitoring.
How do I get an appointment quickly?
WhatsApp your reports to +91 9150000542 — our team responds within 4 hours with an appointment slot.

Book a Consultation

Send us your reports on WhatsApp — our team responds within 4 hours.

WhatsApp Dr. Narayana

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