Precision Oncology: Head & Neck Tumour Management What is the Head & Neck Tumour Pathway? This pathway involves the comprehensive evaluation of masses, lesions, or growths in areas including the thyroid, parotid and salivary glands, throat, tongue, and lymph nodes of the neck. Our approach combines surgical expertise with advanced diagnostic mapping to distinguish between benign (non-cancerous) cysts and malignant (cancerous) tumours. Our specialists utilize Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) or Core Biopsies under ultrasound guidance to sample tissue at the cellular level. This is often paired with Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) endoscopy, which uses specific wavelengths of light to visualize abnormal blood vessel patterns that are characteristic of early-stage tumours, allowing for much earlier intervention than traditional exams. Why is this Procedure Personally Vital for You? Early and accurate diagnosis in the head and neck region is critical for preserving vital functions like speech, swallowing, and appearance. This pathway is personally vital for you if: You Have a Persistent Lump or Swelling: Any painless or growing mass in the neck or face requires immediate mapping to rule out malignancy. Non-Healing Oral Lesions: Persistent sores on the tongue or inner cheek that do not heal within two weeks require a specialized oncological assessment. Unexplained Voice Changes or Difficulty Swallowing: Tumours near the larynx or esophagus can interfere with these functions long before they are visible externally. To Access Multidisciplinary Expertise: Our team provides a "Tumour Board" approach, where surgeons, radiologists, and oncologists collaborate to ensure the most effective, least invasive surgical plan is chosen. The Path to Oncological Stability and Recovery The goal of the Head and Neck pathway is the complete removal (resection) of the tumour with clear margins while stabilizing the surrounding nerves and structures. This pathway is designed to: Provide 3D Surgical Mapping: We use High-Resolution MRI and PET-CT scans to create a 3D blueprint of the tumour’s relationship to critical arteries and nerves, ensuring maximum safety during surgery. Ensure Clinical Readiness through Rigorous Screening: To ensure your body is prepared for the metabolic demands of surgery and healing, we require a full medical history, diagnostic X-rays (specifically a chest X-ray to rule out metastasis and for anesthesia clearance), and comprehensive blood tests (including liver/kidney function, coagulation profiles, and nutritional markers). A Focused Recovery and Stabilization Window: The head and neck are highly vascular areas where post-operative swelling must be carefully managed to protect the airway and nerves. We focus on a 2–3 week recovery and stabilization period. This window is essential for the surgical site to heal, for the reduction of lymphatic swelling (edema), and for our medical board to confirm the pathology results and stabilize your speech and swallowing functions before you transition to long-term follow-up care. All details are subject to doctor evaluation for the final treatment plan.