Composite Resection for Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a condition that impacts the mouth, tongue, gums, internal cheeks, floor of the mouth and in some cases the jaw as well. The results of treatment are usually favourable when it is identified in the early stages. In more developed conditions, however, surgery becomes extremely important to eliminate the cancer and to prevent its further progression. Composite resection is one of such surgical methods.

At Gleneagles Hospitals, oral cancer is treated with composite resection, with a strong focus on patient safety, functional rehabilitation, and long-term quality of life. The medical team understands that receiving a diagnosis of oral cancer can be daunting. The team provides clear communication, compassionate care, and individualised treatment planning while supporting the patients and their families throughout the process.

Composite resection is a surgical procedure performed to cure oral cancer when the disease has spread beyond the surface tissues. It is the surgery to remove the tumour, along with any surrounding structures that might be harmed, such as part of the jawbone, the surrounding soft tissues, and, in some cases, the lymph nodes in the neck.

This surgery is to ensure that the entire cancer is removed with minimal chances of recurrence. The process might seem to be excessive, but in most cases, it is the only sure way to contain the disease and improve survival rates, particularly in moderate to advanced stages of oral cancer.

Not all oral cancers require composite resection. This is recommended in instances where:

• The tumour has metastasised to more than one tissue type.
• The jawbone is involved.
• Cancer is operable, but in an advanced stage.
• Other treatment methods (such as radiotherapy) might not suffice.

The doctor will advise composite resection as the course of action following close assessment and thorough consultation.

Each patient is different, and not all patients with oral cancer require such surgery. The appropriate candidates will typically comprise:

• Patients with locally advanced oral cancer.
• People who are physically strong enough to undergo significant surgery.
• Patients whose cancer can be removed entirely.
• Patients who are ready to adhere to rehabilitation and follow-up treatment after the surgery.

Patients Who May Not Be Suitable

Composite resection is not a recommended procedure in individuals with:

• Ill health or severe cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions.
• Cancer that is highly disseminated and cannot be eliminated.
• Medical conditions that make surgery unsafe

Your medical team will guide you honestly - no guesswork, no sugar-coating.

Composite resection is carried out by a competent team that may include head and neck surgeons, reconstructive surgeons, anaesthetists, and rehabilitation experts.

Before Surgery

Before the operation, patients get a thorough evaluation that includes scans and blood tests. The team describes the surgery, results, and recovery in terms understandable to the patient. The patient is also given emotional and nutritional support, which leaves many patients anxious at this stage.

During Surgery

Surgery is done under general anaesthesia. The surgeon removes the cancerous tissue, including any bone or nearby structures. If the lymph nodes in the neck are at risk, they can also be removed during the procedure.

Immediately after cancer removal, reconstruction is performed in most cases. The latter can be associated with the reconstruction of the jaw or soft tissues using tissue from another part of the body. The focus is on restoring functionality and appearance in as natural a manner as possible.

After Surgery

Patients undergo a process followed by close observation in a recovery or intensive care unit. The pain is addressed attentively, and the care team monitors the signs of infection or other complications. The duration of hospital stay also varies depending on the level of surgery and reconstruction.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Composite resection is a slow recovery process and requires time and encouragement. The first few weeks focus on recovery, nutrition, and pain management.

Patients may need:

• Speech and swallowing therapy to regain daily functions.
• Dietary advice, particularly when one finds it hard to eat at first.
• Physiotherapy to enhance jaw and neck movement.
• Psychological and emotional help to adapt to the changes.

Through proper rehabilitation and aftercare, most patients can resume the normal functioning of their lives and, with time, become self-sufficient.

Life does change after surgery - but it doesn’t stop. Through rehabilitation and support, a good number of patients recover:

• The ability to eat and speak
• Confidence in daily life
• Independence and social comfort

Both radiotherapy and other forms of treatment might be necessary for some patients. Follow-ups are needed regularly to track the recovery and identify the recurrence at an early stage.

• Multidisciplinary Cancer Care

Gleneagles Hospitals combine surgeons, oncologists, rehabilitation specialists, and support teams to provide coordinated, patient-centred care.

• Expertise in Complex Oral Cancer Surgery

The hospital has expertise in treating high-level oral cancers using contemporary surgical practices and reconstruction.

• Comprehensive Rehabilitation Support

The process of recovery does not stop in the operating theatre. The journey involves speech therapy, nutritional support, and emotional counselling.

• Advanced Facilities

Modern operating theatres and diagnostic equipment promote accurate and safe surgical care.

Composite resection is a life-saving surgery for oral cancer in patients with advanced cancer. Although it is a significant process, it has the best possibility of eliminating cancer and restoring the functions with the assistance of reconstruction and rehabilitation.

The patients can be empowered and hopeful with professional help, sincere advice, and understanding. At Gleneagles Hospitals, it is not only about treating cancer but also about helping people regain their lives.