Mouth Cancer Surgery and Tumour Removal in Chennai

Has a Persistent Mouth Ulcer Raised Concerns of Cancer?

A non-healing ulcer or red patch in the mouth can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer or oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). When a biopsy confirms oral cancer, the primary treatment is often surgical removal of the disease as part of complete oral cancer surgery. This procedure is clinically known as a wide local excision.

• Wide Local Excision: This surgical procedure involves removing the oral cancer along with a surrounding border of healthy tissue, known as a margin, to ensure no cancer cells are left behind.
• The Goal of Surgery: By achieving clear margins, we aim to prevent the cancer from returning while preserving as much healthy oral structure and function as possible.

What to Expect During Wide Local Excision Oral Cancer in Chennai

Understanding the steps of mouth cancer surgery can help ease anxiety. Dr. Pradeep S. and Dr. Kalpa Pandya plan every step meticulously to ensure complete clearance of the tumour, and where the tongue is involved this may extend to a glossectomy.

• Surgical Planning: High-resolution scans and clinical examinations help map the exact boundaries of the oral cancer excision.
• Tumour Removal with Margins: The surgeon carefully removes the primary tumour along with a safe margin of healthy-looking tissue, usually 1 to 1.5 centimetres wide.
• Frozen Section Margins: While you are asleep, a pathologist examines the edges of the removed tissue under a microscope to confirm they are completely free of cancer cells before we complete the surgery.

Reconstruction and Restoring Your Smile

Removing a tumour can leave a gap in the delicate tissues of the mouth. Our surgeons are trained in oral & maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) and focus on restoring both your appearance and oral functions like speech and swallowing.

• Primary Closure: For small, early oral cancer surgery Chennai cases, the wound can often be closed directly with dissolvable stitches.
• Local Flaps: Nearby healthy tissue is gently shifted to cover the open area, maintaining natural movement.
• Microvascular Reconstruction: For larger defects, we coordinate with the wider surgical team at our affiliated Apollo or partner hospital to transfer tissue from other parts of the body, ensuring comprehensive rehabilitation.

Your Recovery Path After Mouth Cancer Surgery

A smooth recovery requires careful post-operative care and regular monitoring. If the cancer has reached the neck nodes, a neck dissection may be part of the same operation. We guide you through every milestone to ensure proper healing of the surgical site.

• Pain Management: We provide a structured medication plan to keep you comfortable during the initial healing phase.
• Nutritional Support: A temporary liquid or soft diet is recommended to prevent irritation to the healing tissues in your mouth.
• Speech and Swallowing Therapy: If the surgery affects your tongue or jaw, our rehabilitation partners help you regain normal function through targeted exercises.

Personalised Care by Dedicated Maxillofacial Surgeons

When facing oral cancer, having a consistent, experienced surgical team makes a significant difference. Dr. Pradeep S. and Dr. Kalpa Pandya provide joint, hands-on care from your first consultation through to your long-term follow-up visits.

• Comprehensive Evaluation: We thoroughly assess your condition, explaining all treatment pathways in clear, reassuring language.
• Coordinated Hospital Care: Major surgeries are performed at our partner hospitals, utilizing advanced surgical facilities and intensive care support.
• Long-Term Follow-Up: We monitor your recovery closely with regular check-ups to ensure you remain healthy and cancer-free.

Our practice warmly welcomes patients who travel to Chennai from across Tamil Nadu and the wider South India region. We understand the challenges of seeking outstation care and gladly facilitate remote second opinions and coordinated treatment planning for those travelling from afar.