Head and Neck Oncology Surgery by Dr. Sunny Khanna – Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Sunny Khanna, a distinguished surgical oncologist, specializes in head and neck oncology surgery, offering comprehensive treatment for cancers affecting the head and neck region. This includes cancers of the oral cavity, throat, larynx (voice box), sinuses, salivary glands, and thyroid. With extensive experience and a patient-centric approach, Dr. Khanna provides advanced surgical interventions aimed at achieving optimal cancer control while preserving vital functions such as speech, swallowing, and appearance.

Overview of Head and Neck Oncology:

Head and neck oncology deals with cancers that arise in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region, many of which are related to the mucosal linings of the mouth, throat, and larynx. These cancers can have significant impacts on basic functions like breathing, eating, speaking, and appearance. Dr. Khanna’s approach is highly individualized, focusing on comprehensive care that encompasses not only tumor removal but also functional and aesthetic rehabilitation.

Types of Head and Neck Cancers Treated:

1. Oral Cavity Cancer:
This includes cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, and inner lining of the cheeks. Dr. Khanna performs surgical excisions to remove tumors while striving to preserve the form and function of the oral cavity. In cases of advanced cancers, reconstructive surgery may be required to restore the ability to speak and eat.

2. Throat (Pharyngeal) Cancer:
Cancers of the pharynx (throat) include oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, and nasopharyngeal cancers. Depending on the location and stage of the cancer, Dr. Khanna performs surgeries to remove the tumor, sometimes combined with neck dissection to remove affected lymph nodes. His goal is to eradicate the cancer while maintaining as much of the patient’s natural throat structure as possible.

3. Laryngeal Cancer (Voice Box):
Laryngeal cancer affects the voice box and can impair speech and breathing. Dr. Khanna offers partial laryngectomy surgeries, which remove part of the larynx while preserving the voice, or total laryngectomy when necessary, which involves the complete removal of the larynx. He works closely with patients to plan for voice rehabilitation through the use of prosthetics or speech therapy.

4. Salivary Gland Cancer:
Salivary gland cancers are rare but can occur in the parotid, submandibular, or sublingual glands. Dr. Khanna specializes in removing tumors from these sensitive areas while carefully protecting facial nerves to minimize complications like facial paralysis.

5. Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer:
Tumors in the nasal cavity or sinuses can be complex due to the proximity to critical structures such as the eyes and brain. Dr. Khanna employs meticulous surgical techniques to remove cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding structures.

Thyroid and Parathyroid Cancer:
Dr. Khanna performs thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland) and parathyroidectomy for patients with thyroid or parathyroid cancer. These surgeries are performed with precision to avoid damage to surrounding nerves and vital structures like the parathyroid glands and vocal cords.

Surgical Techniques in Head and Neck Oncology

Dr. Sunny Khanna utilizes a variety of surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s specific condition, cancer stage, and overall health. His surgical expertise encompasses both traditional open surgeries and minimally invasive techniques, always with the goal of achieving the best possible oncological outcomes while preserving function and aesthetics.

1. Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS):
For certain tumors in the throat or larynx, Dr. Khanna employs Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), a minimally invasive technique that uses robotic arms to access and remove tumors through the mouth, avoiding external incisions. TORS offers patients quicker recovery, reduced pain, and minimal scarring.

2. Endoscopic Surgery:
Dr. Khanna uses endoscopic surgery for tumors in the nasal cavity, sinuses, and skull base. This technique allows for the removal of tumors through the nasal passages without the need for large external incisions, leading to faster recovery and fewer complications.

3. Open Surgery with Reconstruction:
For larger or more complex head and neck cancers, traditional open surgery may be required. Dr. Khanna is skilled in advanced reconstructive techniques to restore appearance and function after tumor removal. This may involve skin grafts, tissue flaps, or bone reconstruction to repair areas affected by cancer surgery.

4. Neck Dissection:
Many head and neck cancers spread to the lymph nodes in the neck. Dr. Khanna performs neck dissection surgeries to remove cancerous lymph nodes while preserving as many non-cancerous structures as possible, such as muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.

Microvascular Reconstruction:
In cases where significant tissue or bone has been removed during surgery, Dr. Khanna performs microvascular reconstruction. This involves transferring tissue from another part of the body (e.g., arm, leg, or back) to reconstruct the area affected by cancer, ensuring the best possible functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Multidisciplinary Care Approach:

Head and neck cancers require a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Khanna collaborates closely with specialists in radiation oncology, medical oncology, pathology, speech and swallowing therapy, and plastic surgery to ensure that his patients receive the highest level of care at every stage of treatment.

Functional Rehabilitation:
Dr. Khanna emphasizes the importance of functional rehabilitation following head and neck surgery. Patients may work with speech therapists, swallowing therapists, and physical therapists to regain abilities impacted by cancer surgery. This holistic approach ensures that patients not only survive their cancer but also enjoy a high quality of life post-treatment.

Reconstructive Surgery:
Reconstruction is a key aspect of Dr. Khanna’s head and neck cancer care. Depending on the extent of the surgery, reconstruction may involve the restoration of facial features, jaw function, or the ability to speak and swallow. By employing advanced reconstructive techniques, Dr. Khanna ensures that his patients can return to their normal lives with minimal impact on their appearance and daily functions.

Personalized Treatment and Comprehensive Care:

Dr. Sunny Khanna’s approach to head and neck oncology is built on a foundation of personalized care. He thoroughly assesses each patient’s unique situation, including the type, location, and stage of cancer, as well as their overall health and personal goals. This comprehensive evaluation allows him to design a tailored treatment plan that not only addresses the cancer but also supports the patient’s physical, emotional, and social well-being.

From the initial diagnosis to surgical intervention and post-operative care, Dr. Khanna is committed to providing his patients with the most effective and compassionate care. His dedication to utilizing state-of-the-art techniques, combined with his deep expertise in head and neck oncology, ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care throughout their cancer journey.

By integrating advanced surgical methods, cutting-edge technology, and a multidisciplinary care approach, Dr. Sunny Khanna offers hope and healing to those facing head and neck cancers, empowering them to overcome their diagnosis and regain control of their lives.