Department Of
Head and Neck Surgery

Head and neck surgery encompasses a diverse range of procedures focusing on conditions affecting the skull, face, throat and associated structures. Surgeons employ advanced techniques to address issues such as tumours, trauma, and deformities, with the ultimate goal of restoring function, alleviating pain, and improving the overall well-being of patients.

In our Department of Head and Neck Surgery, excellence merges seamlessly with compassion in our commitment to your well-being. Our team of highly skilled surgeons and healthcare professionals stands ready to provide world-class care for a comprehensive range of head and neck conditions. With a patient-centric approach at the heart of everything we do, we ensure that you receive the highest quality services tailored to your specific needs.

Multidisciplinary Approach:

At SPARSH Hospitals, the Head and Neck Surgeons adopt a multidisciplinary approach, integrating expertise from otolaryngologists, oncologists, radiologists, and speech therapists. This collaborative strategy optimizes patient care, ensuring comprehensive evaluation, tailored treatment plans, and improved outcomes. The fusion of diverse specialties enhances the management of complex conditions such as tumours and reconstructive procedures.

Specialised Services:

The Department of Head and Neck Surgery specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide spectrum of head and neck cancers and other non-oncological cases including congenital anomalies, trauma and other surgical interventions in the head and neck region, providing comprehensive care, from early detection to advanced treatment options.

Below are the key areas of expertise within our Head and Neck Oncology services:

a. Early and Advanced Oral Cancers:

Head and neck surgeons are crucial in the comprehensive management of oral cancer, utilising advanced strategies tailored to different stages. In early cases, we perform precise tumour excisions and reconstructive procedures. For advanced oral cancer, surgeons undertake complex interventions like neck dissections and targeted therapies, addressing the intricacies of disease progression. Our expertise extends beyond surgery, incorporating advanced diagnostic techniques and multidisciplinary approaches to optimise outcomes, enhance survival rates, and improve the overall well-being of patients facing oral cancer challenges.

b. Management of Premalignant Lesions:

In head and neck surgery, managing premalignant lesions (Leukoplakia, erthroplakia , OSMF etc ), is pivotal to prevent cancer development. We employ various approaches, including excisional biopsy, laser therapy, and close surveillance. Precise identification and removal of these lesions play a critical role in preventing their progression to malignancy.

c. Salivary Gland Tumours and Malignancies:

Head and Neck Surgeons have a crucial role in the management of salivary gland tumours and malignancies. Our expertise involves precise diagnostics, utilising imaging and biopsies to determine the nature and extent of the tumour. We use a multidisciplinary collaboration during the surgical excision, aiming for optimal outcomes in terms of tumour control, facial nerve preservation and preservation of gland function whenever possible.

d. Benign and Malignant Conditions of Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands:

Head and neck surgery is instrumental in addressing both benign and malignant conditions affecting the thyroid and parathyroid glands. We adeptly manage thyroid nodules and goitres through precise interventions, including thyroidectomies or thyroid lobectomies. In cases of thyroid or parathyroid malignancies, surgical strategies may involve tumour excision, often incorporating lymph node dissections. This specialised surgical care aims to restore glandular function, preserve adjacent structures, and achieve optimal outcomes for patients with thyroid and parathyroid disorders.

e. Minimal Access Surgery and Robotic-Assisted Surgery:

We are at the forefront of minimal access surgery and robotic-assisted surgery for head and neck tumours.

Minimal access surgery involves performing procedures through small incisions, using specialised instruments and cameras. This approach reduces trauma, accelerates recovery, and minimises scarring compared to traditional open surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery, a subset of minimal access surgery, employs robotic systems controlled by surgeons. This technology enhances precision, allowing for complex manoeuvres with improved dexterity. Both techniques contribute to reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to normal activities for patients.

f. Laryngeal tumours and Cancers:

Our team plays a critical role in the management of laryngeal tumours and cancers. We address a spectrum of conditions, ranging from benign growths to malignant neoplasms. Treatment strategies include LASER cordectomy, laryngeal framework procedures and partial and total laryngectomy with speech rehabilitation in the form of TEP, electrolarynx and oesophageal speech precise excisions. Preservation of vocal function and quality of life is a priority, often achieved through meticulous surgical techniques and, when necessary, reconstructive procedures. Multidisciplinary collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach, integrating surgery with other modalities for optimal patient outcomes.

g. Parapharyngeal Tumours:

Head and neck surgery is integral in managing parapharyngeal tumours, which develop in the space adjacent to the pharynx including schwannomas, carotid body tumours, and glomus tumours. Meticulous dissection and preservation of surrounding structures are crucial to minimise complications and maintain optimal function. Multidisciplinary coordination ensures a comprehensive strategy, often involving imaging, biopsy, and postoperative care for optimal patient outcomes.

h. Sarcomas of the Head and Neck:

Our team has the experience that is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of sarcomas, rare but potentially aggressive soft tissue tumours affecting the head and neck region. The surgical management involves precise excision requiring intricate procedures to achieve complete removal while preserving vital structures. We utilise a multidisciplinary approach to develop personalised treatment plans that may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy to achieve the best possible outcomes. Depending on the extent and type of the sarcoma, reconstructive techniques may be employed to restore form and function.

i. Sinonasal Malignancies:

We play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal malignancies, including nasal cavity and paranasal sinus tumours. Surgical interventions involve meticulous excision, addressing complexities such as skull base involvement. Our comprehensive approach ensures thorough evaluation and tailored treatment strategies to optimise outcomes in terms of tumour control and the well-being of our patients.

j. Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery:

We offer advanced endoscopic skull base surgery for tumours and other lesions affecting the skull base region. Endoscopic skull base surgery is a minimally invasive approach to treating tumours involving the skull base, where the brain sits atop the nasal cavities. This technique allows for precise visualisation and removal of tumours, lesions or abnormalities without the need for external incisions. Our surgeons are skilled in performing this advanced procedure which leads to shorter recovery period and improved outcomes compared to traditional open procedures

k. Skull Base and Craniofacial Surgeries:

Our team is proficient in performing complex skull base and craniofacial surgeries to treat tumours and reconstructive procedures for skin, eye, and scalp malignancies. We utilize innovative techniques to achieve optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes for our patients. This specialised field highlights the importance of multidisciplinary skills in managing diverse pathologies affecting the skull base and craniofacial region.

l. Temporal Bone Resections:

We possess the advanced skills necessary in the intricate procedures involving the removal of portions of the temporal bone for tumours, infections and other condition affecting the ear and surrounding structures. The complexity of the temporal bone anatomy requires precision and expertise which our surgeons are trained in, to safely remove tumours while preserving hearing and facial nerve function whenever possible.

m. Surgery and Reconstruction for Skin, Eye, and Scalp Malignancies:

Surgery and reconstruction for skin, eye, and scalp malignancies e.g Basal cell carcinoma, Melanoma, Squamous cell carcinoma etc involve a multifaceted approach led by head and neck surgeons. These specialists meticulously excise malignant lesions, employing techniques that prioritize both oncological control and aesthetic outcomes. Reconstructive procedures follow, aiming to restore form and function while minimizing cosmetic impact. Coordination with ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons, and other specialists is common to ensure a comprehensive strategy. This integrated approach maximizes patient well-being, emphasizing both cancer management and optimal postoperative outcomes for the skin, eye, and scalp regions.

Head and Neck Surgery in Non-oncological cases

Head and neck surgery extends beyond oncological cases, encompassing a diverse range of non-cancerous conditions. Surgeons address congenital anomalies, trauma, infections, and functional disorders affecting the head and neck region. Procedures may involve reconstructive surgery, correction of facial deformities, and interventions for issues like airway obstruction, swallowing difficulties, or sleep apnoea. The scope of head and neck surgery in non-oncological cases aims to enhance patients’ overall health, function, and quality of life through precise and tailored interventions.

a. Benign cysts and tumours of the maxillofacial region.

These encompass a variety of non-cancerous growth in the form of tumours or cysts that can develop within the tissues of the maxillofacial region. They may arise from epithelial remnants associated with tooth development or inflammatory processes related to dental tissues associated with impacted or unerupted or infected teeth. eg Dentigerous cysts, radicular cysts, odontogenic ketatocyst ameloblastoma, odontoma, and cementoblastoma. They may also arise from non-dental mesenchymal or epithelial tissues eg nasopalatine duct cysts, dermoid cysts, fibroma, lipoma, Osteoma etc and can lead to swelling, pain, and damage to surrounding structures if they become large or infected. Treatment typically involves surgical removal in the form of enucleation, marsupialization or resection depending on size location and type of growth.

b. Facial Reanimation

Facial reanimation is a specialized area within head and neck surgery dedicated to restoring facial movement in patients with facial paralysis due to various conditions such as Bell’s palsy, facial nerve injury, or congenital facial paralysis (like Moebius syndrome). We employ various techniques to address this condition, such as nerve grafts, muscle transfers, and functional restoration procedures. The goal is to improve facial symmetry and function, enhancing both aesthetic appearance and the patient’s ability to express emotions. This nuanced field requires a thorough understanding of facial anatomy, nerve function, and reconstructive principles to achieve optimal outcomes in facial reanimation.

c. Head and neck Reconstructive Surgery:

Head and neck reconstructive surgery involves restoring form and function to areas affected by trauma, cancer congenital anomalies or other conditions. Our department specialises in intricate reconstructive procedures aimed at restoring form and function. We utilize a variety of techniques, including local and regional flaps and microvascular free flaps, Zygomatic implant perforated flaps with dental rehabilitation etc, to rebuild structures like the jaw, tongue or throat and to achieve optimal outcomes for our patients. The goal is not only to address physical appearance, but to optimise speech, swallowing and other vital functions. Innovative approaches such as virtual planning and facial reanimation surgery are employed to enhance precision and effectiveness, ensuring both aesthetic and functional success.

d. Congenital Complex facial defects

Congenital deformities such as cleft lip, cleft palate, craniosynotstosis, deformational plagiocephaly, hemifacial microsomia, microtia etc are some of the complex facial defects addressed by our department. Preferably, the surgical intervention for congenital defects should be done before the patient turns one. The goal is to first repair the defect and then to restore the appearance of the affected part of the face. If surgical restoration with skin graft and tissue transfer does not prove to be sufficient, then a prosthesis may also be used.

e. Dysphagia

Head and neck surgery plays a crucial role in addressing dysphagia. We employ various interventions to manage structural issues affecting the throat, oesophagus and surrounding structures including dilation of strictures, removal of obstructive masses or reconstructive surgeries to improve the co-ordination of swallowing muscles. This aims at enhancing the efficiency and safety of the swallowing process, ultimately improving the patient’s ability to eat and drink without difficulty or discomfort.

f. Airway obstruction

The Department of Head and Neck Surgery employ various interventions to alleviate airway obstructions such as airway reconstruction in cases such a trauma or acquired stenosis; tumour excision; laryngeal or thyroid removal depending on the reason.

g. Sleep Apnoea

Surgery for sleep apnoea is typically considered in carefully selected cases when conservative management proves to insufficient and the choice of procedure depends on the specific anatomical factors contributing to airway obstruction. The surgical interventions we employ include Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty(UPPP) to open the upper airway by removing excess tissue in the throat; Genioglossus Advancement (GA) or repositioning the tongue muscle attachment to prevent airway collapse; Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) or repositioning the upper and lower jaw to relieve airway obstruction and Hyoid Suspension or lifting and securing the hyoid bone to prevent airway collapse. We work in close collaboration with sleep specialist and respiratory therapists to ensure comprehensive management of sleep apnoea.

Our Department of Head and Neck Surgery is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to every patient we serve. Whether you’re seeking treatment for a complex medical condition or routine care, you can trust our team to deliver the highest quality services with integrity and expertise. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal health and well-being.