Introduction
Oralcancer is a major public health issue globally, and Nigeria is not anexception. It is among the most common head and neck cancers and hassignificant morbidity on the health and quality of life of patients. Thedisease may occur in any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue,cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth (hard and soft palate),sinuses, and pharynx (throat). Oral cancer diagnosed late becomeslife-threatening with the onset of severe complications that damage vitalfunctions such as speech, swallowing, and breathing. Unfortunately, latediagnosis in Nigeria is rampant due to limited awareness, inappropriate accessto medical care, and cultural beliefs around medical treatment.
Oralcancer surgery is one of the most effective treatments for the disease,particularly when the disease is diagnosed early enough to be cured withsurgery. Oral cancer surgery involves the removal of cancerous tumors and insome cases the tissue surrounding them to prevent the spread of the disease.Several factors, however, influence the success of oral cancer surgery inNigeria. These encompass the availability of specialized healthcare facilities,the professional skill of doctors, and access to low-cost care. While numerouswell-staffed hospitals and cancer treatment centers are found in urban regions,rural regions tend to lack the facility for early detection and surgicaltreatment, which has a detrimental impact on patient outcomes in these regions.
Otherthan infrastructural and medical challenges, socioeconomic status also dictatesaccess to oral cancer surgery in Nigeria. All patients have financial burdensthat limit them from getting timely care, especially in a country where out-of-pocketpayment accounts for the bulk of financing healthcare services. The cost oforal cancer surgery, post-surgical care, and rehabilitation treatment can beprohibitively costly for the poor, discouraging them from accessing medicalcare. Moreover, the fact that most Nigerians lack health insurance coverageadds to the cost of cancer treatment. Eliminating these obstacles requires goodhealthcare policies, increased investment in cancer treatment, and awarenesscampaigns to promote timely diagnosis and treatment.
Thispiece treats oral cancer surgery in Nigeria extensively, including highlightsthat are the definition of the procedure, causes of the procedure, diagnosticmeasures, treatment on offer, what may be the implications of this procedure,as well as rehabilitation after the surgery. It even addresses some commonlyasked questions regarding oral cancer surgery, giving us important insights onhow patients and doctors can interact and maximize impact. By bringing to focusthe challenge and opportunities in oral cancer management in Nigeria, thisdiscussion will promote awareness, enhance treatment outcomes through betteraccess to treatment, and ultimately enhance survival rates among the patients.
At Surjen Healthcare, we are committed to respecting your autonomy and providing informed consent during every step of your healthcare journey. Book a teleconsultation with one of our experienced doctors today to experience ethical and patient-centered care.WhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
Whatis Oral Cancer Surgery?
Surgery for oral cancer is a serious medical procedureaimed at removal of cancerous tumor masses from the oral cavity with maximumsparing of normal function and form as possible. The type of surgery performeddepends on the size, location, stage, and overall health of the patient. In themajority of cases, surgery is the initial form of treatment, though it isfrequently combined with radiation, chemotherapy, or other therapies to achievebetter outcomes. The different forms of surgery for oral cancer are as follows:
Types of Oral Cancer Surgery
1.TumorResection: An operation to resect a growth that is malignant and a border ofnormal tissue to prevent recurrence. The amount of resection depends on tumorsize and extent.
2.Mandibulectomy(Jawbone Removal): Partial or complete removal of the lower jawbone (mandible)if cancer has penetrated into the bone. Can include reconstruction to restorejaw function and appearance.
3.Maxillectomy(Upper Jaw Resection): Resection of the upper jaw segment or the wholestructure if cancer has affected this region. Can involve the use ofprosthetics or reconstructive surgery.
4.Glossectomy(Tongue Removal): Partial or complete removal of the tongue for cancer of thetongue. Can affect speech and swallowing, typically requiring speech therapyfollowing surgery.
5.NeckDissection (Lymph Node Removal): They are taken out in the neck to prevent thespread of cancer to the rest of the body. It is required when cancer hasalready spread beyond the oral cavity.
6.ReconstructiveSurgery: Used to re-establish form and function after extensive tissue removal.May include grafting, tissue flaps, or prosthetic implants. Microvascular freeflap surgery is a more recent procedure that improves outcomes. SurgeryCombined with Other Treatment
Surgery for oral cancer is often used in combinationwith other treatments to achieve the best outcomes and prevent recurrence:
1.RadiationTherapy: Utilizes high-energy beams to kill and destroy residual cancer cells.Usually applied following surgery, particularly in advanced cases.
2.Chemotherapy:Makes use of drugs that kill cancer cells to reduce tumors or kill residualcancer cells. Most often applied when cancer has metastasized beyond the oralcavity.
3.TargetedTherapy: Employs drugs that selectively target cancer cells without affectingnormal cells. Interferes with the mechanisms of growth and survival of cancercells.
4.Immunotherapy:Encourages the body's immune system to recognize and target cancer cells. Anewer therapy for certain types of oral cancer. By combining surgical treatmentwith advanced treatment methods, patients have a better chance for recoverywhile maximizing their quality of life. Reach out to us viaWhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
Causesof Oral Cancer
Awareness about the etiology of oralcancer will help in prevention and early diagnosis. Several causative riskfactors are implicated in the disease:
1. TobaccoUse
Use of cigarette, cigar, pipe, orsmokeless tobacco (snuff, chewing tobacco) considerably increases the risk oforal cancer. The chemicals in tobacco damage cells in the oral cavity, inducingmutations that may progress to cancer.
2. AlcoholConsumption
Heavy drinking is also a major riskfactor. Those who consume alcohol heavily, especially with tobacco smoking, areat high risk of oral cancer. Alcohol causes inflammation and softening of themouth tissues, rendering them vulnerable to cancerous changes.
3. HumanPapillomavirus (HPV) Infection
Other HPV types, particularly HPV-16,also have a link to oral cancers, particularly those at the rear of the throat,tonsils, and base of the tongue. HPV infection is emerging as an establishedrisk factor.
4. TooMuch Sun Exposure
Excessive exposure to the sun'sultraviolet (UV) light increases the chances of lip cancer. Farm laborers,laborers, and individuals who spend extended periods of time outdoors with noprotection on their lips are particularly at risk.
5. PoorDiet and Nutrition
A low-fruit and -vegetable diet, whichare rich in protective antioxidants and vitamins, could help to increase therisk of oral cancer. The immune system would be weakened by nutritionaldeficiencies, making it more difficult for the body to repel precancerouschanges.
6. Ageand Gender
Oral cancer is more common in individualsabove 40 years of age, and men are twice as likely to get the conditioncompared to women. This is partly because men consume more alcohol and tobacco.
7. Genetics
Individuals with a history of oralcancer in their families can be genetically inclined to developing thecondition. Learn moreWhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
Diagnosis of OralCancer
Early diagnosis is crucial forimproving survival rates. The diagnostic process includes:
1. ClinicalExamination
A doctor or dentist conducts a thoroughexamination of the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat to check for unusual lumps,sores, or discolorations.
2. Biopsy
A biopsy involves taking a small sampleof suspicious tissue and examining it under a microscope to confirm thepresence of cancer cells.
3. ImagingTests
X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scanshelp determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to otherparts of the body.
4. Endoscopy
A flexible tube with a camera isinserted through the mouth or nose to examine deeper areas of the throat andoral cavity.
Alternativesto Oral Cancer Surgery
While surgery is a common treatment,alternative or supplementary treatments include:
1. RadiationTherapy
High-energy radiation is used to killcancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used alone or in combination withsurgery.
2. Chemotherapy
Cancer-fighting drugs are administeredorally or intravenously to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth.
3. TargetedTherapy
Drugs specifically designed to attackcancer cells without affecting normal cells are used.
4. Immunotherapy
This treatment strengthens the body’simmune system to fight cancer.
5. PalliativeCare
For advanced cases, palliative carefocuses on relieving pain and improving quality of life. Book a session with our experts todayWhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
Consequencesof Oral Cancer Left Untreated
Oralcancer surgery has severe physical, emotional, and social consequences,including:
·Pain and discomfort: Postoperative painis normal and can be managed with medication.
·Swelling and bruising: Transient andwill resolve within a few weeks.
·Speech and swallowing difficulties:These can be impaired by the surgery and require rehabilitation.
·Change in appearance: Facialdisfigurement can result with some surgery and will resolve negatively withself-esteem.
·Emotional difficulties: Thepsychological effect of cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause depression andanxiety.
Post-RecoveryProcess
Recoveryfrom oral cancer surgery varies based on the procedure’s extent and thepatient’s overall health. Key aspects include:
·Painmanagement: Medications are prescribed to alleviate discomfort.
·Wound care:Proper hygiene and wound care are essential to prevent infections.
·Nutrition:Patients may require dietary modifications or a liquid diet initially.
·Speech andswallowing Therapy: Rehabilitation helps restore normalfunctions.
·Regularfollow-up appointments: Monitoring for recurrence orcomplications is crucial.
·Emotional andpsychological support: Counseling and support groups providemental health support.
Conclusion
Oral cancer surgery is a vital treatment option forpatients in Nigeria, providing them with a chance for recovery and improvedsurvival. The procedure is often necessary to remove cancerous tumors andprevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the body. However,undergoing surgery comes with challenges, including the risk of post-surgicalcomplications such as infections, difficulty in speaking and swallowing, facialdisfigurement, and prolonged healing times. The emotional and psychologicaleffects of oral cancer surgery can also be overwhelming, as patients mayexperience anxiety, depression, or a loss of self-confidence due to changes in appearanceor speech.
Despite these challenges, advancements in medicaltechnology, reconstructive surgery, and post-surgical rehabilitation havegreatly improved outcomes, helping many patients regain functionality and adaptto life after surgery. Additionally, support groups and counseling servicesplay an essential role in assisting patients through their recovery journey.
Raising awareness about oral cancer is crucial inNigeria, where many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages due to a lack ofawareness and limited access to healthcare facilities. Many people are unawareof the risk factors, including tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, HPVinfections, and prolonged sun exposure, all of which significantly increase thelikelihood of developing oral cancer. Educating the public about early warningsigns—such as persistent mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, and unexplainedbleeding—can encourage timely medical consultations and increase the chances ofearly diagnosis, which is critical for successful treatment. Regularscreenings, particularly for high-risk individuals, can lead to earlierdetection and more effective management of the disease. Healthcareinstitutions, policymakers, and non-governmental organizations must worktogether to improve access to cancer treatment, provide financial support forlow-income patients, and integrate oral cancer education into public healthcampaigns to reduce the burden of the disease in Nigeria. Speak with our best doctors in Lagos, Abuja and PortHarcourt todayWhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
FAQsabout Oral Cancer Surgery
1.What are the early signs of oralcancer?
According to SURJEN Healthcare professionals, the early signs of oral cancer can be subtle and areoften mistaken for minor infections or common oral issues, leading to delayeddiagnosis. One of the most common symptoms is persistent mouth sores that donot heal within two weeks. These sores may appear as ulcers with a white, red,or mixed-colored patch and can be painful or painless.WhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
2.How long is the recovery period?
SURJEN Healthcare professionals suggest that, the recovery period after oral cancer surgery variesbased on several factors, including the extent of the surgery, the patient’soverall health, and whether additional treatments like radiation orchemotherapy are required. For minor procedures, such as the removal of smalltumors, recovery may take a few weeks, with patients gradually resuming normaleating and speaking functions.WhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
3.Can oral cancer recur after surgery?
Yes, oral cancer can recur after surgery, which iswhy regular follow-up appointments and continuous monitoring are crucial.Cancer recurrence may happen in the same location (local recurrence), in nearbytissues (regional recurrence), or in distant organs (distant metastasis).WhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
4.Is oral cancer surgery painful?
Pain is common but manageable with medication according to our best doctors at SURJEN HealthcareWhatsApp|PhoneCall|Email
5.What lifestyle changes should I makepost-surgery?
Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, andmaintaining a healthy diet can help prevent recurrence.
6.Can I eat normally after surgery?
Initially, eating may be difficult, but withtherapy, most patients regain normal eating habits.
7.What are the success rates of oralcancer surgery?
Success depends on the cancer stage, surgery extent,and patient’s overall health. Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
References
National Cancer Institute. (2021). Oral CancerTreatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov
World Health Organization. (2020). Oral Health.Retrieved from https://www.who.int
American Cancer Society. (2021). Oral Cavity andOropharyngeal Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org
Nigerian Cancer Society. (2021). Oral CancerAwareness. Retrieved from https://www.nigeriancancersociety.org
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Oral Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org
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