The pharynx is a hollow tube in the neck that channels air to the lungs and food to the stomach, consisting of three parts: the nasopharynx (upper), oropharynx (middle), and hypopharynx (lower, connecting to the esophagus and windpipe). The larynx, or voice box, is the part of the throat that is found at the entrance of the windpipe, and plays an important role to help us breathe and speak. Cancer of the voice box is common in people over the age of 60, and is seen mostly in men than women. The most common symptom is having a hoarse voice for more than 3 weeks. Some other symptoms are:
These symptoms may stem from other conditions as well. For example, a hoarse voice can also be caused by laryngitis or excessive use of the voice box. Consulting an ENT specialist to accurately diagnose one’s condition is crucial and leads to better treatment outcomes.
The causes of throat cancer are not fully clear, but risk factors can increase one’s predisposition to getting include:
The management of throat cancers, including cancers of the larynx, hypopharynx, and oropharynx, demands expert care. At Zydus Hospitals, our head and neck cancer surgical team brings 30-40 years of experience to this challenging field, and has performed well over thousands of surgeries using minimally invasive and robotic techniques that prioritise functional outcomes alongside cancer control.
They perform complex procedures, including laser-assisted surgeries - cordectomies, partial and total laryngectomies, neck dissection for removing masses, and reconstructive surgeries. A dedicated tumour board reviews every case, integrating input from radiation oncology, speech-language pathology, physiotherapy, and palliative care. Patients and families also have access to counselling if needed, and the patient needs are never overlooked.
