Laryngectomy and Radiation Therapy: Treatment Options for Throat Cancer
Have you or your loved one been diagnosed with throat cancer and are exploring treatment options? Throat cancer, also known as laryngeal carcinoma, affects the voice box (larynx) and can impact speech, breathing, and swallowing. At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, we provide advanced, patient-centered treatments for throat cancer, including Laryngectomy and Radiation Therapy, combining surgical precision, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate multidisciplinary care.
These treatments are led by our Head & Neck Surgery and Oncology and Laryngology specialists, ensuring expert care for every stage of throat cancer.
Read on to understand the complete process, from diagnosis to recovery, and learn how our expert team helps patients regain function and confidence after treatment.
Understanding Throat Cancer and the Larynx
The larynx, or “voice box,” sits in the throat and plays a vital role in breathing, producing sound, and protecting the airway during swallowing. Throat cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in this area, affecting the vocal cords, epiglottis, or nearby structures.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Long-term tobacco or alcohol use
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Prolonged exposure to industrial pollutants or asbestos
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
- Genetic susceptibility
Early detection is critical — when identified in its early stages, throat cancer has high treatment success rates.
Recognizing Symptoms of Throat Cancer
Symptoms vary based on tumor location and stage but often include:
- Persistent hoarseness or change in voice
- Difficulty swallowing or sensation of something stuck in the throat
- Sore throat that doesn’t heal
- Unexplained cough or blood in sputum
- Ear pain without ear infection
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- Noticeable lump in the neck
- Unintended weight loss
If you experience these symptoms for more than 2–3 weeks, seek evaluation by an ENT or oncology specialist promptly.
Diagnosing Throat Cancer at Thanc Hospital
At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, diagnosis is carried out using a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, ensuring accuracy and treatment personalization.
Diagnostic steps include:
- Detailed Medical History & Clinical Evaluation
The specialist reviews voice changes, swallowing patterns, lifestyle factors, and overall health status. - Endoscopic Examination (Laryngoscopy)
A flexible fiber-optic scope is used to visualize the vocal cords and laryngeal structures directly. - Imaging Studies
CT scan, MRI, or PET-CT helps determine tumor size, spread, and involvement of lymph nodes. - Biopsy & Pathology
A tissue sample confirms cancer type and stage — crucial for treatment planning. - Voice and Swallowing Assessment
Conducted by our speech-language pathologists to understand pre-treatment function and plan for rehabilitation.
Post-assessment care is supported by our dedicated Voice and Airway Clinic and Audiology and Speech Language-Pathology teams to ensure optimal voice and swallowing recovery.
Once all investigations are complete, our multidisciplinary tumor board — including oncologists, ENT surgeons, radiologists, and speech therapists — collaborates to create a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Throat Cancer
Treatment depends on the stage, location, and extent of the cancer. At Thanc Hospital, the primary modalities include:
1. Laryngectomy (Surgical Treatment)
Laryngectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the larynx.
It may be performed as:
- Partial Laryngectomy: Removes only the affected part of the larynx, preserving speech when possible.
- Total Laryngectomy: Removes the entire larynx when cancer is extensive. After this, the patient breathes through a permanent stoma (opening) in the neck.
Surgical Process Overview
Preoperative Phase:
- Complete evaluation and imaging
- Counseling sessions on voice rehabilitation and breathing changes
- Nutritional and psychological preparation
During Surgery:
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Removal of tumor and affected tissues
- Neck dissection (if lymph nodes are involved)
- Creation of tracheostoma (breathing opening in neck)
- Wound closure and suction drainage
Duration: Typically 3–5 hours, depending on complexity.
Postoperative Phase:
- ICU observation for 24–48 hours
- Pain management and antibiotics
- Early mobilization and gradual oral feeding
- Initiation of speech and swallowing therapy
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation Therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It may be:
- Primary treatment for early-stage cancers
- Adjuvant therapy after surgery to prevent recurrence
- Palliative therapy to relieve symptoms in advanced cases
Types of Radiation Techniques at Thanc Hospital
- IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy): Precisely targets tumors while sparing normal tissues.
- IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy): Ensures accuracy using real-time imaging.
- Brachytherapy: Internal radiation for selected cases.
Typical Radiation Schedule
- Duration: 5–7 weeks (daily sessions, 5 days per week)
- Each session lasts around 10–15 minutes
- Regular monitoring for side effects and progress
Concerned about persistent throat pain or voice changes?
Our expert ENT and oncology specialists at Thanc Hospital, Chennai are here to help.
Book a consultation today to discuss whether Laryngectomy or Radiation Therapy is the right treatment option for you.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Laryngectomy
Rehabilitation is a vital part of the healing process. Our integrated team provides guidance in all aspects of post-surgical recovery.
1. Breathing & Stoma Care
- Learn stoma hygiene and cleaning techniques
- Use protective filters to prevent dust entry
- Practice humidification and regular suction if required
2. Nutrition and Swallowing
- Gradual return from liquid to solid diet
- Swallowing exercises to regain comfort
- Dietitian-guided nutrition for strength and healing
3. Voice Rehabilitation
After total laryngectomy, natural voice is lost — but communication is restored through:
- Tracheoesophageal Voice Prosthesis (TEP)
- Electrolarynx device
- Speech therapy sessions
4. Emotional & Social Support
Our counseling team assists patients and families to adapt confidently to lifestyle changes, ensuring strong emotional recovery alongside physical healing.
Expected Outcomes & Long-Term Benefits
With expert care, most patients experience:
- Complete removal of cancer or long-term remission
- Effective communication through voice prosthesis
- Normal swallowing and nutrition
- Restoration of confidence and quality of life
Early-stage throat cancers treated with combined modalities at Thanc Hospital have high cure rates (up to 85–90%).
Safety, Success, and Standards at Thanc Hospital
Our success stems from multidisciplinary collaboration and advanced infrastructure.
Our Strengths
- Board-certified Head & Neck Oncologists
- Skilled reconstructive and ENT surgeons
- Advanced IMRT/IGRT Radiation Suite
- NABH-accredited operation theatres
- Comprehensive speech & swallowing therapy unit
- 24/7 critical care and support team
We prioritize patient comfort, dignity, and holistic recovery at every step.
Risks and How We Mitigate Them
While modern techniques have made laryngectomy and radiation therapy safer, potential risks include:
After Surgery
- Infection or wound complications
- Temporary swallowing difficulty
- Voice loss (managed with prosthesis)
- Breathing adjustments through stoma
After Radiation Therapy
- Mucosal irritation and sore throat
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Fatigue and mild skin changes
Thanc Hospital Minimizes Risks Through:
- Expert surgical precision
- Customized radiation planning
- Advanced wound care protocols
- Early rehabilitation and continuous monitoring
Preparing Yourself and Your Family
- Discuss all questions openly with your oncologist and speech therapist
- Arrange emotional support and caregiver help post-surgery
- Follow dietary and medication instructions carefully
- Quit smoking and alcohol completely before treatment
We ensure both patients and families feel prepared, supported, and confident through every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is speech possible after laryngectomy?
Yes. Using a voice prosthesis or electronic larynx, patients can speak clearly after training.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Hospital stay is about 7–10 days; full recovery and speech adaptation may take 4–6 weeks.
Can throat cancer recur?
Regular follow-ups and lifestyle changes significantly reduce recurrence risk. Our surveillance program ensures early detection.
Does radiation cause pain?
No pain during radiation, but mild throat soreness may occur temporarily.
Will I be able to eat normally again?
Yes, most patients regain normal swallowing within weeks with therapy support.
Expert Throat Cancer Care at Thanc Hospital, Chennai
✓ Multidisciplinary oncology and ENT team
✓ Advanced IMRT and endoscopic surgery facilities
✓ Personalized rehabilitation and voice therapy
✓ Insurance & cashless treatment options
✓ Located conveniently in Chennai
Final Thoughts
A throat cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming — but with the right medical care, recovery and quality of life are achievable.
At Thanc Hospital, Chennai, our integrated Head & Neck Oncology team combines precision surgery, modern radiation techniques, and comprehensive rehabilitation to deliver the best outcomes for every patient.
If you or a loved one is facing throat cancer, take the first step toward healing today — we’re here to guide you through every stage with care and confidence.
