Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet Successfully Performs Complex Lower Jaw Surgery to treat Oral Cancer in a man aged 72
Chennai, 30th August 2024: A man aged 72 with a rapidly growing tumor involving the lower jaw, successfully underwent a surgery at Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet, a unit of Kauvery Group of Hospitals.
The individual presented with a large tumor in the midline of his lower jaw near the chin, causing significant ulceration, discharge, and an inability to open his mouth. Despite seeking medical attention elsewhere, the patient had not received a definitive diagnosis. Upon arriving at Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet, a biopsy was conducted, confirming the presence of cancer in the lower jaw.
Dr. Sujay Susikar, Senior Consultant Surgical Oncology and his team at Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet performed a meticulous composite resection. This intricate procedure involved removing the entire tumor, including the affected bone, skin, inner mouth tissues, part of the tongue, and lymph nodes on both sides of the neck. The complexity of this surgery required a highly skilled and coordinated effort by the surgical team.
Following the tumor removal, the team executed an intricate reconstruction using a free flap technique. Explaining about the procedure, Dr Sujay says , “This procedure involved taking bone from the patient’s lower limb to replace the resected portion of the mandible (lower jaw). Additionally, skin and other tissues were used to reconstruct the affected areas of the mouth and tongue. This comprehensive approach ensured not only the removal of the cancerous tissues but also the restoration of the patient’s oral functions and appearance.Post-surgery, the patient now exhibits a normal appearance, is able to open his mouth, consume liquids, and speak to some extent.”
The successful surgery has resulted in a remarkable transformation for the patient. The patient’s recovery has been closely monitored, and he is showing promising progress in regaining his quality of life.
“The prevalence of cancer in India has been steadily rising. Early detection and awareness are crucial in combating this growing burden, as timely intervention can greatly improve outcomes. The field of Oncology has also seen immense developments in treatment and we have been able to provide the most advanced treatment and care. We have been treating cancers with different stages and complexities and this has been possible with the expert team of Medical, Surgical and Radiation Oncologists at the Kauvery Cancer Institute.,” says Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director Kauvery Group of Hospitals.
