Robotic head and neck surgery utilizes state-of-the-art technology to address a range of conditions affecting the mouth, soft palate, throat, tongue, and tonsils. At the Thangam Robotic Institute, a team of skilled surgeons led by experts like Dr. Saravana Rajamanickam harnesses the power of robotics to perform intricate procedures with precision and efficiency.
This approach not only ensures thorough removal of cancerous cells but also minimizes damage to healthy tissue, leading to shorter recovery times and reduced complications for patients.
Here’s a deep dive into Thangam Robotics Institute and the experts behind it:
Conditions Treated at TRI
1. Robotic TORS (Transoral Robotic Surgery):
Symptoms
Symptoms of head and neck cancers may vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common signs include persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, a lump or mass in the mouth or throat, ear pain, and unexplained weight loss. It's essential to consult a doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen over time.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, especially if they persist for more than two weeks, it's crucial to seek medical evaluation promptly. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for head and neck cancer.
Reasons for Surgery
TORS is recommended when traditional surgery may not be feasible or may result in significant functional impairment. It offers a minimally invasive approach to remove tumors in the mouth, throat, or skull base while preserving nearby healthy tissue. Surgery may be recommended as part of a multimodal treatment plan that includes chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
Scans, Tests, and Other Procedures Before Surgery
Before undergoing TORS, patients typically undergo imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans to assess the extent and location of the tumor. A biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer's stage. Additionally, patients may undergo blood tests and other preoperative evaluations to assess their overall health and fitness for surgery.
Recovery
Recovery from TORS is often faster compared to traditional open surgery. Patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and difficulty swallowing immediately after the procedure, which typically resolves within a few days. A liquid or soft diet may be recommended initially, followed by a gradual return to normal eating habits. Patients may also undergo speech therapy or swallow therapy to improve swallowing function postoperatively.
2. Robotic Surgery for Sleep Apnea:
Symptoms
Common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) include loud snoring, observed episodes of breathing pauses during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, dry mouth or sore throat upon waking, and difficulty concentrating during the day. It's important to note that not all individuals with OSA experience symptoms, and some may only become aware of the condition through the reports of a sleep partner.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you or your sleep partner notice symptoms suggestive of sleep apnea, such as loud snoring or choking/gasping during sleep, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease and daytime fatigue, affecting overall quality of life.
Reasons for Surgery
Robotic surgery for sleep apnea, specifically targeting obstructions in the tongue base and epiglottis, may be recommended when other treatments, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or oral appliances, have not provided adequate relief. Surgery aims to improve airflow during sleep by removing or reducing obstructions in the upper airway.
Scans, Tests, and Other Procedures Before Surgery
Before undergoing robotic surgery for sleep apnea, patients may undergo a sleep study (polysomnography) to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition. Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI scans may be performed to evaluate the anatomy of the upper airway and identify areas of obstruction.
Recovery
Recovery from robotic surgery for sleep apnea varies depending on the specific procedures performed and individual patient factors. Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and temporary changes in speech or swallowing immediately after surgery. Pain medications and a soft diet may be recommended to manage symptoms during the initial recovery period. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, with improvements in sleep quality and daytime symptoms gradually becoming apparent over time.
3. Robotic Neck Dissection:
Symptoms
Symptoms of head and neck cancers may include a lump or mass in the neck, persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, ear pain, and unexplained weight loss. It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, so a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you notice any concerning symptoms in the head or neck region, especially if they persist for more than two weeks or are accompanied by other worrisome signs such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, it's essential to seek prompt medical evaluation. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for head and neck cancers.
Reasons for Surgery
Neck dissection is a surgical procedure performed to remove lymph nodes in the neck that may be affected by cancer spread. Robotic-assisted neck dissections offer enhanced precision and shorter recovery times compared to traditional open procedures, making them an attractive option for eligible patients. Surgery may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
Scans, Tests, and Other Procedures Before Surgery
Before undergoing robotic neck dissection, patients typically undergo imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans to assess the extent and location of the cancer and evaluate the involvement of nearby structures and lymph nodes. Biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer's stage. Additionally, patients may undergo blood tests and other preoperative evaluations to assess their overall health and fitness for surgery.
Recovery
Recovery from robotic neck dissection varies depending on the extent of the surgery and individual patient factors. Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and limited range of motion in the neck immediately after surgery, which typically improves over time. Pain medications and physical therapy may be recommended to manage symptoms and facilitate recovery. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, with regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Meet Dr. Saravana Rajamanickam: A Pioneer in Robotic Thoracic Oncology
Dr. Saravana Rajamanickam, an esteemed expert in thoracic oncology, specializes in treating lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and mediastinal tumors. With extensive training in minimally invasive techniques, he leads in robotic lung cancer surgery in South India. His academic journey includes renowned institutions like Madras Medical College, King George’s Medical College, and Tata Memorial Centre, reflecting his dedication to surgical oncology. Dr. Rajamanickam's achievements include performing Tamil Nadu's first robotic lung cancer surgery, becoming one of the highest-volume surgeons in South India. He shares his expertise through workshops and international webinars, contributing significantly to thoracic oncology research and education.
Get Treated By the Best
Thangam Robotic Institute and experts like Dr. Saravana Rajamanickam are leading the way with innovative treatments and compassionate care. Through the integration of robotic technology, these surgeons are transforming the landscape of head and neck surgery, offering patients hope, healing, and a path to better health.