Dr. Lovedeep Singh Chauhan | Consultant Surgical Oncologist
Laryngeal cancer is a serious but treatable form of head and neck cancer that affects the voice box (larynx). Because the larynx is responsible for speech, breathing, and protecting the airway during swallowing, cancers in this region require careful evaluation and highly specialized treatment. Early diagnosis not only improves survival but also increases the chances of preserving voice and swallowing function.
Dr. Lovedeep Singh Chauhan , Consultant Surgical Oncologist in punjab at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for laryngeal cancer. With advanced training in surgical oncology and extensive experience in head and neck cancers, he focuses on achieving oncological safety while maintaining the best possible functional outcomes for patients.
Understanding the Larynx (Voice Box)
The larynx, commonly known as the voice box, is located in the front of the neck between the throat (pharynx) and the windpipe (trachea).
Key Functions
- Voice production – The vocal cords vibrate to create sound
- Airway protection – Prevents food and liquids from entering the lungs
- Breathing regulation – Maintains an open airway for normal respiration
Anatomical Regions
- Supraglottis – Upper portion above the vocal cords
- Glottis – Middle section containing the vocal cords
- Subglottis – Lower part extending toward the trachea
Clinical Importance
The location of a tumor within these regions significantly influences symptoms, treatment decisions, and prognosis.
What Is Laryngeal Cancer?
Laryngeal cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the tissues of the larynx. The vast majority of cases are squamous cell carcinoma, arising from the lining cells of the voice box.
Laryngeal cancer is strongly associated with tobacco exposure and remains one of the more common head and neck cancers in India. Fortunately, when detected early, it has a high cure rate, especially for glottic cancers that present early with voice changes.
Risk Factors for Laryngeal Cancer
Understanding risk factors is essential for prevention and early detection.
Tobacco Use
Alcohol Consumption
HPV Infection
Occupational Exposure
Chronic Acid Reflux
Poor Oral Hygiene & Nutrition
Symptoms of Laryngeal Cancer
Symptoms vary depending on which part of the larynx is affected.
Early Symptoms
Glottic cancers often present early because even small tumors affect vocal cord movement.
- Persistent hoarseness lasting more than 2–3 weeks
- Voice fatigue
- Change in voice quality
Symptoms of Supraglottic Tumors
- Pain while swallowing
- Sensation of something stuck in throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Ear pain (referred pain)
Advanced Symptoms
As the tumor progresses, patients may experience:
- Breathing difficulty
- Stridor (noisy breathing)
- Lump in the neck due to lymph node involvement
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent cough
- Blood-stained sputum
Any persistent hoarseness beyond two weeks, especially in individuals with tobacco exposure, should not be ignored.
Diagnosis and Staging of Laryngeal Cancer
Accurate diagnosis and staging form the cornerstone of effective treatment planning.
The evaluation process typically includes:
Clinical Examination
A detailed head and neck examination including palpation of cervical lymph nodes.
Flexible Laryngoscopy
A thin flexible camera is passed through the nose to visualize the larynx and vocal cords directly.
Direct Laryngoscopy with Biopsy
Performed under anesthesia, this allows tissue sampling for histopathological confirmation.
Imaging Studies
- CT scan of neck to evaluate tumor size and cartilage involvement
- MRI for soft tissue assessment
- PET-CT in advanced or metastatic disease
- Chest imaging to rule out lung involvement
Staging
Laryngeal cancer is staged from Stage I to Stage IV using the TNM classification system:
- T – Size and local spread of tumor
- N – Lymph node involvement
- M – Distant metastasis
Early-stage cancers (Stage I–II) are often curable with single-modality treatment. Advanced-stage cancers (Stage III–IV) may require multimodal therapy.
Treatment of Laryngeal Cancer
Treatment planning depends on:
- Stage of cancer
- Tumor location
- Vocal cord mobility
- Patient’s age and health status
- Desire for voice preservation
Treatment for Early-Stage Laryngeal Cancer
Early-stage cancers offer the highest chance of cure and voice preservation.
Options include:
Radiation Therapy
Radiation alone can effectively treat many early glottic cancers while preserving natural voice.
Endoscopic Laser Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery through the mouth to remove small tumors.
Partial Laryngectomy
Selected cases may benefit from surgical removal of part of the larynx while preserving speech.
Both radiation and surgery offer comparable cure rates in early disease. The choice depends on tumor characteristics and patient preference.
Treatment for Advanced Laryngeal Cancer
Advanced cancers require comprehensive planning.
Chemoradiation
Organ preservation protocols combine chemotherapy and radiation to avoid total laryngectomy in selected patients.
Total Laryngectomy
When tumors are extensive or cartilage is involved, complete removal of the larynx may be necessary for cure.
Neck Dissection
Removal of lymph nodes in the neck when cancer has spread regionally.
Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy
Used in selected advanced or recurrent cases.
Surgical Management of Laryngeal Cancer
Surgery plays a vital role in managing laryngeal cancer, particularly in:
When is Surgery Recommended?
- Early-stage tumors amenable to partial resection
- Advanced tumors requiring definitive removal
- Residual disease after radiation
- Recurrent cancers
Specialized Surgical Approach
Dr. Lovedeep Singh Chauhan specializes in head and neck oncologic surgery with emphasis on:
- Oncological clearance with negative margins
- Organ preservation when feasible
- Functional reconstruction
- Comprehensive neck dissection techniques
The goal is always to balance cure with quality of life.
Voice Rehabilitation After Total Laryngectomy
Loss of natural voice is a major concern for patients undergoing total laryngectomy. However, modern rehabilitation techniques allow patients to regain effective communication.
Options include:
- Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) with voice prosthesis
- Electrolarynx device
- Esophageal speech training
Speech therapists work closely with patients to restore communication abilities and social confidence.
Post-Treatment Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies depending on the type of treatment received. Patients undergoing partial surgery may resume oral intake relatively quickly, while total laryngectomy requires structured rehabilitation.
Long-term follow-up includes:
- Regular laryngoscopic evaluation
- Monitoring for recurrence
- Nutritional support
- Smoking cessation counseling
- Voice therapy
Early detection of recurrence improves salvage success rates.
Why Choose Dr. Lovedeep Singh Chauhan for Laryngeal Cancer Treatment?
Choosing the right surgical oncologist significantly impacts both survival and long-term quality of life.
Dr. Lovedeep Singh Chauhan is a Consultant Surgical Oncologist at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, with advanced training in head and neck oncology. His clinical approach is guided by evidence-based protocols and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Comprehensive Cancer Care
Every patient receives individualized treatment planning after detailed evaluation.
Organ Preservation Focus
Whenever medically feasible, efforts are made to preserve natural voice and swallowing function.
Advanced Surgical Expertise
Experience in complex oncologic resections and neck dissections ensures oncological safety.
Multidisciplinary Coordination
Close collaboration with medical oncology, radiation oncology, speech therapy, and rehabilitation services ensures complete care.
Ethical and Transparent Counseling
Patients are provided with clear explanations of disease stage, treatment options, risks, and expected outcomes.
When to Seek Immediate Consultation
You should seek evaluation if you experience:
- Hoarseness lasting more than 2–3 weeks
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent throat pain
- Lump in the neck
- Breathing difficulty
Early evaluation can preserve voice and improve survival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Question? Get In Touch
