Head & Neck Cancer Treatment in Mohali: Surgical & Non-Surgical Options & Cost

Comprehensive, patient-centered information about head and neck cancer treatment in Mohali and wider Punjab. This guide explains what head and neck cancers are, why they occur, how they are diagnosed and staged, the full range of treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), modern surgical innovations available in Mohali, estimated costs, rehabilitation and how to choose the best head and neck oncology centre in Mohali. If you are searching for the best head and neck cancer hospital in Punjab or want detailed guidance on head and neck cancer surgery cost Punjab, this article is written for you and your family.

Introduction

Head and neck cancers refer to a group of malignant tumours that arise in the mouth, throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), nasal cavity, sinuses and salivary glands. Globally, head and neck cancers are an important public health problem: GLOBOCAN estimates indicate that nearly 900,000 new cases of lip, oral cavity and pharyngeal cancers occur each year worldwide. In India, head and neck cancers account for a disproportionately large share of cancer cases — historically reported to represent roughly 25–30% of all cancers in some regions — largely due to high tobacco and areca nut use and late presentation.

In Punjab and specifically the Chandigarh-Mohali region, awareness, screening and access to specialized ENT oncologists and multidisciplinary head and neck oncology centres have been increasing. Patients searching for head and neck cancer treatment in Punjab or the best head and neck oncology centre Mohali want two things: disciplines and technology that provide accurate diagnosis and evidence-based, individualized treatment plans; and compassionate care that addresses function, appearance and quality of life.

This article is written to help patients and families understand options such as minimally invasive head and neck surgery Mohali, transoral robotic surgery Mohali, open resections with facial reconstruction, radiation therapy for head and neck cancer Punjab, chemoradiation and modern systemic therapies. We also include comparative tables, estimated costs for the Mohali and Punjab region, postoperative care guidance and how to choose the right head and neck surgeon Mohali or ENT oncologist Mohali.

What is head and neck cancer?

Head and neck cancer is a collective term for cancers that develop in or around the throat, larynx, nose, sinuses, and mouth. The most common histological type is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which arises from the mucosal lining of these regions. Other types include salivary gland tumours (adenoid cystic carcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma), lymphomas, sarcomas and metastases from other primary sites.

Anatomically, head and neck cancers are commonly described based on site:

• Oral cavity (tongue, floor of mouth, cheek lining, gums, palate)
• Oropharynx (tonsils, base of tongue, soft palate)
• Larynx (voice box)
• Hypopharynx (lower throat)
• Nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses
• Salivary glands (major and minor glands)

The clinical behavior, treatment approach and prognosis depend on several factors:

• Site and size of the primary tumour
• Involvement of lymph nodes in the neck
• Presence of distant metastasis
• Histologic type and grade
• Patient factors such as age, performance status and comorbidities

Many head and neck cancers are curable when detected early. Modern management emphasizes organ preservation (maintaining speech, swallowing and appearance) whenever possible. That is why early diagnosis and a treatment plan from a multidisciplinary team — including ENT oncologists, head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, speech therapists and nutritionists — are essential. If you are seeking head and neck cancer treatment Mohali or head and neck oncology centre Punjab, look for centres that provide such integrated care.

Causes and risk factors

Head and neck cancers have several well-established causes and risk factors. Understanding these helps in prevention and screening strategies. The most important driving factors differ by region and subsite, but the leading contributors include:

• Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, beedis, pipes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco (gutkha, khaini, paan with tobacco) are the single largest risk factors for oral, pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers.
• Alcohol: Heavy alcohol use acts synergistically with tobacco to markedly increase risk.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): High-risk HPV types (especially HPV-16) are strongly associated with oropharyngeal cancers (tonsils and base of tongue). HPV-positive cancers have different prognosis and treatment considerations — often better response to therapy — and require different counseling and follow-up. If you are researching HPV throat cancer treatment Mohali, make sure the centre offers HPV testing and tailored care.
• Areca nut (betel quid) and related products: Widely used in parts of India and Punjab, areca nut and betel quid increase oral cancer risk independently of tobacco.
• Occupational exposures: Wood dust, certain chemicals, asbestos exposure, and inhaled pollutants can raise sinus and nasopharyngeal cancer risk.
• Poor oral hygiene and chronic irritation: Dental disease, ill-fitting dentures and chronic trauma can contribute to mucosal changes.
• Genetic predisposition and prior radiation exposure: Prior radiotherapy to the head and neck or inherited cancer syndromes can increase risk.
• Age and sex: Most head and neck cancers occur in adults over 40, with higher rates in males historically; however, HPV-related cancers are increasingly seen in younger patients and females.

Preventive strategies applicable in Mohali and Punjab include strong anti-tobacco campaigns, limiting alcohol, public education about harmful areca nut practices, vaccination programs for HPV, and routine oral screening at primary healthcare and dental clinics. Patients with high-risk habits should seek regular dental and ENT check-ups and early evaluation of any persistent ulcer, swelling or throat change.

Symptoms and early detection

Early detection of head and neck cancer dramatically improves the chances for cure and reduces the need for extensive surgery that could affect speech or swallowing. Common symptoms to watch for include:

• Non-healing mouth ulcer: An ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within two to three weeks.
• Persistent hoarseness: Voice changes lasting more than three weeks, especially in smokers.
• Throat pain or difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): Progressive difficulty swallowing solids then liquids may indicate oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal disease.
• Unexplained neck lump: A painless lump in the neck may be the first sign of a primary tumour in the head and neck.
• Ear pain or persistent discharge: Referred ear pain, especially with normal ear exam, can be a symptom of nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal tumours.
• Bleeding from the mouth or nose, facial numbness: These warrant urgent ENT evaluation.
• Weight loss and persistent fatigue: Signs of advanced disease or systemic effects of cancer.

Screening and early detection programs in Punjab, including community dental checks and opportunistic screening by primary care doctors, can help catch disease earlier. In Mohali, specialized centres and ENT clinics offer targeted screening for high-risk patients — for example, anyone with a history of tobacco chewing, smoking, or heavy alcohol use, or those with persistent symptoms as listed above.

Diagnostic actions for suspicious symptoms often include a focused ENT examination, endoscopic evaluation, imaging (ultrasound, contrast CT, MRI, PET-CT when indicated) and biopsy for histopathology. HPV testing (p16 immunohistochemistry or PCR) is important for oropharyngeal tumours because it influences prognosis and sometimes treatment choices.

Diagnosis, staging and investigations

After an initial clinical evaluation and history, establishing an accurate diagnosis and stage is the cornerstone of effective management. Diagnosis involves tissue sampling and pathology; staging uses clinical examination plus imaging.

Common investigations include:

• Biopsy: Incisional or excisional biopsy of the lesion is mandatory to confirm malignancy and determine histologic type and grade.
• Endoscopy: Flexible laryngoscopy or nasoendoscopy to visualize tumour extent in the pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity and sinuses.
• Imaging: Contrast-enhanced CT scan and MRI are used to assess local disease, bone invasion and soft-tissue extent. Ultrasound of the neck with guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) helps evaluate lymph nodes. PET-CT is used for advanced disease, detection of occult primaries, or staging in certain cases.
• HPV testing: For oropharyngeal tumours (p16 immunohistochemistry or molecular testing).
• Baseline labs and fitness testing: Blood tests, ECG and anesthetic fitness evaluation prior to major surgery.

Staging follows the TNM system (Tumour size T, regional lymph Nodes N, distant Metastasis M) set by the AJCC/UICC. Precise staging helps the team select curative versus palliative approaches. Multidisciplinary tumour boards — standard in tertiary centres such as the head and neck oncology centre Mohali — review cases to agree on the optimal combination of surgery, radiotherapy and systemic therapy.

A thoughtful diagnostic pathway is especially crucial because treatment must balance cancer control with preservation of speech, swallowing and facial appearance. Discuss with your specialist what tests are necessary for staging and whether any test results will change the planned treatment.

Treatment options: surgical and non-surgical

Head and neck cancer treatment is individualized. The main curative modalities are surgery and radiation therapy; chemotherapy and targeted or immunotherapy play roles as primary, adjuvant (postoperative) or palliative treatments. Many patients receive a combination — for example, surgery followed by adjuvant radiation or chemoradiation when risk factors are present.

Key principles:

• Early-stage tumours (stage I–II): May be treated with single modality therapy — either surgery or radiation — aiming for cure with minimal functional loss.
• Locally advanced tumours (stage III–IV): Often require combined treatment: surgery with reconstruction followed by radiation or chemoradiation; or definitive chemoradiation to preserve organs when feasible.
• HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer: These tumours are more radiosensitive and have better outcomes; treatment protocols may be adapted accordingly under clinical guidance.
• Palliative care: For metastatic or unresectable disease, the goal is symptom relief and preserving quality of life using radiation, systemic therapy and supportive measures.

Surgical options range from local excision and wide resection to neck dissection (removal of lymph nodes) and complex facial and oral cavity reconstruction, including microvascular free flap reconstruction. Advances such as minimally invasive endoscopic and robotic techniques (transoral robotic surgery) allow removal of some tumours with less disruption of normal structures and often faster recovery.

Radiation therapy techniques also advanced significantly: Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) allow precise delivery to the tumour while sparing salivary glands and other normal tissues, reducing side effects like dry mouth and swallowing difficulty. Chemoradiation (combined chemotherapy and radiation) is widely used for organ preservation in laryngeal and oropharyngeal cancers and as adjuvant therapy after surgery if high-risk features are present.

Surgical techniques and innovations available in Mohali

Surgical treatment for head and neck cancer has evolved rapidly. In Mohali, leading centres — including Livasa Hospitals — offer a range of surgical options that span traditional open resections to advanced minimally invasive and reconstructive techniques. The choice of surgery is determined by tumour site, size, depth, involvement of bone or nerves, and the need to reconstruct form and function.

Below is a comparison table summarizing common surgical approaches, benefits and average recovery expectations. These procedures are offered in premier centres across Punjab and Mohali by experienced head and neck surgeons Mohali and ENT oncologists Mohali.

Livasa Mohali and other advanced centres in Punjab emphasize experienced multidisciplinary teams, availability of microvascular reconstructive surgeons and access to minimally invasive platforms. While transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is not required for all tumours, when available it provides an important organ-preserving option for oropharyngeal tumours. Patients who are candidates for minimally invasive surgery often experience reduced hospital stays, earlier return to oral diet, and better cosmetic results.

Non-surgical treatments and modern systemic therapies

Not all head and neck cancers require surgery. Radiation therapy and systemic treatments are central to the management of many tumours. Non-surgical approaches are also critical for patients unfit for surgery or when organ preservation is a priority.

Common non-surgical modalities include:

• Radiation therapy: IMRT and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) deliver precise radiation doses that spare normal tissues. In Mohali, advanced radiation techniques reduce long-term side effects such as xerostomia (dry mouth) and dysphagia.
• Chemoradiation: Concurrent chemotherapy (most commonly cisplatin) with radiation is used for definitive therapy in many locally advanced tumours and as adjuvant therapy for high-risk postoperative patients.
• Targeted therapies: Agents like cetuximab (EGFR inhibitor) may be used in selected settings, particularly for patients who cannot tolerate platinum chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab, nivolumab) are approved for recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and may be considered earlier in trials or specific clinical contexts.
• Palliative radiation and pain management: For symptom control in advanced disease.
• Proton therapy and heavy particle therapy: Available in select international centres, these can offer additional normal tissue sparing in complex cases; access may require referral outside Punjab.

The table below compares common non-surgical options, their benefits, and typical treatment durations so patients can understand trade-offs and what to expect when evaluating radiation therapy Mohali for head and neck cancer or chemoradiation Mohali head and neck cancer.

When considering non-surgical alternatives in Mohali, ask the centre about availability of advanced planning systems, experienced radiation oncologists, supportive care (nutrition, swallowing therapy, dental care) and access to clinical trials that can provide newer targeted or immunotherapy options.

Postoperative care, rehabilitation and survivorship

Recovery after head and neck cancer treatment is as important as the operation itself. Postoperative care and rehabilitation preserve function, reduce complications and support long-term quality of life. In Mohali, high-quality centres provide structured rehabilitation that begins in-hospital and continues as outpatient services.

Core components of postoperative care include:

• Wound and flap monitoring: After complex reconstructions (microvascular free flaps), careful monitoring in the first 48–72 hours is crucial to ensure graft survival.
• Pain control and infection prevention: Multimodal analgesia and appropriate antibiotics when indicated.
• Nutrition and enteral feeding: Many patients need temporary feeding tubes (nasogastric or PEG) if oral intake is unsafe during early recovery. Clinical dietitians tailor nutrition plans to support healing and weight maintenance.
• Speech and swallowing therapy: Early involvement of speech-language pathologists helps retrain swallowing mechanics, reduce aspiration risk and restore communication ability.
• Physiotherapy: Especially after neck dissection, targeted physiotherapy prevents shoulder dysfunction and improves mobility.
• Dental and oral care: Preventive dental evaluation and oral hygiene is essential particularly before radiation therapy to reduce osteoradionecrosis risk.
• Psychosocial support: Counseling, peer support groups and rehabilitation services address changes in appearance, voice and social interactions.

Survivorship programs focus on long-term surveillance for recurrence, management of late effects (dry mouth, dental problems, neck stiffness, hypothyroidism after radiation), lifestyle modification (smoking cessation, alcohol avoidance) and monitoring for second primary cancers. Follow-up plans are usually most intensive in the first two years after treatment when recurrence risk is highest.

If you are searching for information on postoperative care after head and neck surgery Mohali or facial reconstruction after oral cancer Mohali, discuss available rehabilitation pathways at your chosen centre and whether they offer integrated services (speech, nutrition, physiotherapy and psychosocial care) to support recovery from day one.

Cost of treatment in Mohali and Punjab: estimates and how to plan

Cost is a major concern for many patients and families. Prices vary widely based on tumour complexity, type of surgery, need for reconstruction, length of hospital stay, radiation technique and systemic therapies used. Below are conservative estimated ranges for Mohali and Punjab to help planning. These are indicative — actual costs depend on the hospital, surgeon and individual treatment plan.

Important considerations:

• Insurance and financial assistance: Check government schemes, employer insurance, and hospital financial counselling. Many hospitals in Mohali provide payment plans and help with paperwork for state and central health schemes.
• Second opinions: Before high-cost decisions (major reconstructions, immunotherapy), seeking a second opinion can confirm the plan and potentially identify less invasive or less costly but effective alternatives.
• Transparent quotes: Request a written estimate that lists surgeon fees, anaesthetist charges, implant or robotic consumables, ICU charges, and expected postoperative rehabilitation costs.

For specific pricing such as oral cancer surgery cost Mohali, cost of head and neck cancer treatment Mohali or cost of throat cancer treatment Mohali, contact Livasa Mohali for personalized estimates based on your diagnosis and treatment plan: +91 80788 80788 or book an appointment online.

Choosing a specialist and head and neck oncology centre in Mohali

Selecting the right hospital and surgeon influences outcomes. When searching for the best head and neck cancer hospital Mohali or looking for the best ENT oncologist Mohali reviews, consider the following:

• Multidisciplinary tumour boards: Centres that discuss each case with an ENT oncologist, head and neck surgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, radiologist, pathologist and rehabilitation specialists tend to provide more balanced, patient-tailored recommendations.
• Volume and experience: Surgeons and teams who perform higher volumes of head and neck cancer procedures often have better outcomes and lower complication rates, especially for complex reconstructions.
• Availability of advanced technology: IMRT, robotic platforms, microvascular reconstructive capability, dedicated head and neck ICU and speech/swallow rehabilitation are markers of comprehensive care.
• Transparent communication: The team should explain risks, expected functional outcomes, and rehabilitation needs clearly and compassionately.
• Support services: Onsite nutritionists, speech therapists, dental teams, physiotherapists and social workers are essential for complete care.

Why consider Livasa Mohali? Livasa Hospitals provides a multidisciplinary approach with experienced surgical and radiation oncology teams and integrated rehabilitation services. For local families seeking head and neck cancer treatment near Mohali or in the wider Punjab region, Livasa Mohali offers timely consultations, diagnostic evaluations and personalized treatment pathways. To arrange a visit or discuss costs and treatment options, call +91 80788 80788 or book online.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I know which treatment is best for me?
A: Treatment depends on tumour site, stage, HPV status, general health and patient priorities (e.g., organ preservation). A multidisciplinary evaluation at a head and neck oncology centre in Mohali will produce an individualized plan.

Q: Does every head and neck cancer need major surgery?
A: No. Early tumours may be treated with either surgery or radiation alone. Some tumours (especially selected oropharyngeal cancers) can be treated by transoral approaches; others may be treated by chemoradiation for organ preservation.

Q: Will reconstruction restore my appearance and function?
A: Reconstructive techniques, including microvascular free flaps, can restore form and significantly improve function. Outcomes depend on the defect size and the surgeon’s experience.

Q: What about follow-up and recurrence surveillance?
A: Regular follow-up visits typically every 1–3 months in the first year, then less frequently, including physical exams, imaging when indicated, and assessment of swallowing, speech and nutrition.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is educational and does not replace personalized medical advice. Costs are estimates and will vary. Always consult an ENT oncologist, head and neck surgeon or multidisciplinary tumour board for decisions about your care.