Oral cancer is a life-altering disease that affects thousands of people worldwide.It is a major problem in India and ranks among the top three types of cancer in the country. Oral cancer prevalence in India is 20 cases per 100,000 people, representing over 30% of all cancers in the country.

It is diagnosed at advanced stages, resulting in low treatment outcomes. Also, rural areas in India have inadequate access to trained healthcare providers and limited health services. This further results in delays in the detection and treatment of advanced stages of oral cancer.

The cost of oral cancer surgery in India ranges from INR 2,35,000 to INR 5,00,000, depending upon the type of surgery.

What is Oral Cancer?

The cancer of the mouth and the back of the throat is known as oral cancer. It develops:

On the tongue
Under the tongue
At the base of the tongue
On the tissues lining the gums and mouth
On the area of the throat at the back of the mouth

What are the Causes of Oral Cancer?

The causes of oral cancer include the following:

Alcohol and tobacco use
Infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Increasing age
A diet low in vegetables and fruits
People with certain inherited gene defects

What are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

The symptoms of oral cancer may include the following:

White or red patch in the mouth
A lump in the neck
Persistent sore throat or hoarseness or loss of your voice
Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
Swelling of the jaw causing poorly fit or uncomfortable dentures
Pain or bleeding in the mouth
Numbness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth
Ear pain

How is Oral Cancer Treated?

Oral cancer is usually treated with surgery but, if detected in advanced stages, may need a combination of treatments.

What are the Surgical Options Available for Oral Cancer Treatment?

The most common surgeries for oral cancer are as follows:

Primary tumor surgery: The tumor is removed through the mouth or an incision in your neck.
Glossectomy: Total or partial removal of the tongue.
Maxillectomy: Removes part or all of the hard palate (the bony roof of your mouth).
Mandibulectomy: Surgery for oral cancer in the jawbone.
Neck dissection: Lymph node removal from the neck.
Reconstruction: Large areas of tissue are removed, followed by reconstructive surgery to fill gaps left by the tumor or replace parts of the lips, tongue, palate, or jaw.

Dr. Kaustubh Patel is a Surgical Oncologist with over 26 years of experience. His expertise includes surgeries for the thyroid, parathyroid, and salivary glands and organ-preserving surgeries for the mandible and larynx. He is experienced in transoral laser surgery (TOLS) in complex cases.

What are Some Other Ways to Treat Oral Cancer?

Sometimes, healthcare providers may combine surgery with other treatments, including the following:

Radiation therapy
Targeted therapy
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy (Biological therapy)

What are the Advancements in Technology for Oral Cancer Treatment in India?

The advancements in technology for oral cancer treatment include the following:

Early detection: One of the essential aspects of effectively managing oral cancer is early detection. This includes high-resolution imaging techniques like cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and 3D mammography, which help identify tumors in their developing stages. Early detection is essential for successful treatment and a higher chance of survival.
Surgical navigation systems: India has also embraced advanced surgical navigation systems that enhance precision during oral cancer surgeries. These systems use real-time imaging and 3D mapping to guide surgeons. This allows surgeons to remove tumors more accurately, minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissues.
Robot-assisted surgery: Robotic surgery has gained ground in India, particularly for complex oral cancer cases. Robots can assist surgeons with complex procedures, offering greater precision and less invasive surgery, resulting in quicker recovery and less post-operative discomfort for patients.
Surgical techniques:
- Microvascular surgery involves transplanting healthy tissue from one part of the body to reconstruct the affected area after tumor removal. Microvascular surgery improves the patient’s aesthetics and enhances their functional outcomes, such as speech and swallowing.
- Laser surgery is increasingly used for oral cancer surgery in India. It offers a minimally invasive option, reducing the damage to surrounding healthy tissue and speeding up recovery. Laser surgery is particularly advantageous for smaller, localized tumors.
- For advanced cases of oral cancer, the composite resection technique combines surgical removal of the tumor with resection of surrounding lymph nodes. This removes any potentially cancerous tissue, reducing the risk of recurrence.

Dr. Kaustubh Patel also has experience performing robotic surgeries to manage laryngeal, oropharyngeal, and thyroid tumors. He attends over 2,400 cases every year.

What is the Estimated Cost of Oral Cancer Surgery in India?

While costs vary widely, a rough estimate for oral cancer surgery in India ranges from INR 1,50,000 to INR 5,00,000 (approximately USD 2,000 to USD 7,000). This includes surgeon’s fees, hospital charges, anesthesia, and primary post-operative care.

What are the Factors Influencing Oral Cancer Surgical Costs in India?

Some of the factors affecting the cost of oral cancer surgery in India:

Type and extent of surgery: The complexity and scope of the surgical procedure significantly impact costs. More extensive surgeries, such as mandibulectomies or glossectomies, may incur higher expenses.
Hospital infrastructure and facilities: High-end hospitals with advanced infrastructure and specialized oncology units may charge more for surgical procedures.
Surgeon’s expertise: Surgeons with extensive experience in oral oncology may command higher fees.
Pre-operative investigations: These costs may include diagnostic tests, biopsies, and imaging studies to assess the extent of cancer.
Anesthesia and operating room charges are essential to the overall surgical cost.
Post-operative care and hospital stay: Length of hospitalization and post-operative care requirements can affect expenses.
Reconstructive surgery: Complex cases may require additional reconstructive procedures, influencing overall costs.

Oral cancer surgery is a critical step in the treatment journey, and understanding the associated costs is essential for informed decision-making. India’s affordable cost of oral cancer surgery positions it as a global leader in the fight against oral cancer. Remember, seeking support from healthcare professionals can be invaluable during this challenging time.