Did you know radiation therapy can be used both to cure and manage throat cancer without surgery? Modern Radiation therapy is effective treatment option with proven results.
Often Radiation therapy is preferred choice for throat cancer patients, as it can cure the cancer without sacrificing voice and swallowing function. Now a days, advanced technology in Radiation therapy, precise targeted treatment is possible with fewer side effects. It’s a powerful tool in the fight against cancer, especially when used properly under supervision of experts.
In this blog, Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, a renowned radiation oncologist, will discuss why radiation therapy is so effective for throat cancer.
How does Radiation Therapy treat Throat Cancer?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy (Mega voltage) X rays to target and destroy cancer cells at DNA level. In throat cancer, these rays are directed straight at the tumour in the throat area.
The goal is to destroy the tumour completely without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
This treatment is especially helpful when the cancer hasn’t spread far and is still localised. It can be used on its own or along with chemotherapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer. Usually the preferred option for throat cancer is primarily Radiation therapy as it preserves the organ and maintains quality of life better. For very early or advanced stage or unresponsive to radiation therapy, surgery has to be done.
Can Throat Cancer be Treated without Radiation?
It depends on the stage, patient’s occupation and preference. In very early stages, surgery alone might work, especially if the tumour is small and confined to one area. However, in most situations, radiation is either the main treatment or a part of a combined approach with other therapies like chemotherapy.
It’s often chosen over surgery because it avoids removing parts of the throat, which can have long-term effects on important functions like speaking or swallowing. This is particularly helpful for patients who wish to maintain their quality of life.
For more advanced cancers, skipping radiation therapy could mean missing a key chance to control or kill the tumour. Without radiation, the cancer might grow or spread, making it harder to treat later.
So, while some patients in the very early stages may not need it, most throat cancer patients do benefit greatly from radiation therapy, as it offers a higher chance of success and is often essential for long-term survival.
What is the Success Rate of Radiation Therapy for Throat Cancer?
Success depends on a few things- how early the cancer is caught, where it’s located, and how the body responds to treatment. Radiation therapy has shown strong results, especially in early-stage throat cancers. In fact, the success rate can be as high as 75% when throat cancer is detected and treated early.
Radiation alone can lead to complete recovery in many of these cases. For more advanced stages, combining radiation with other treatments like chemotherapy or surgery still offers excellent outcomes and can help control the cancer more effectively.
This is why having a skilled specialist makes all the difference. Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, a leading radiation oncologist, carefully plans each step of the treatment, using her expertise and advanced techniques to ensure her patients get the best possible result.
With individualised care and consistent monitoring, patients feel more confident and supported throughout the process.
What is the Main problems when Treating Cancer with Radiotherapy?
Like any treatment, radiation therapy comes with side effects. The most common ones in throat cancer are:
- Sore throat or mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dry mouth
- Skin changes around the neck area
- Fatigue
These side effects happen because of radiation passing through the nearby normal cells. But don’t worry; these cells just reacts to radiation but not damaged like cancer cells. Thus they improve after treatment and get normalised. Additionally, with the guidance of an experienced doctor, side effects are carefully monitored and effectively managed.
Radiation for Throat Cancer: What to Expect
Radiation therapy doesn’t feel like anything while it’s happening- there’s no pain during the actual session. It’s a bit like getting an X-ray, but it takes longer.
Before starting, Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, the leading radiation oncologist, will guide you through a planning session. This helps the doctor figure out exactly where to aim the radiation beams.
Once treatment starts, you will go to the hospital daily (Monday to Friday) for a few weeks. Each session lasts about 15–30 minutes, and you’ll be able to go home immediately after the session.
How Long is Radiation Treatment for Throat Cancer?
Most throat cancer patients receive radiation therapy for 6 to 7 weeks. That’s about 30 to 35 sessions in total. This schedule gives enough radiation to destroy the cancer while allowing healthy tissue time to recover in between.
The length of treatment may vary depending on the size and stage of your tumour. But don’t worry- Dr. Mukti Mukherjee will customise your treatment plan and explain everything clearly.
How Many Radiation Treatments are necessary for Throat Cancer?
As mentioned above, you will usually need one session a day, five days a week. That adds up to about 30–35 treatments in total. These small daily doses add up to a strong amount over time.
You won’t need to stay in the hospital- radiation for throat cancer is an outpatient procedure. After each session, you can return to your normal routine (with some rest).
Throat Cancer Radiation Recovery Time
Recovery looks different for everyone, but here’s a general idea:
- Most side effects peak during the last week of treatment.
- Recovery starts gradually once treatment ends.
- Within 2 to 4 weeks, most patients start feeling better.
- Complete recovery might take 1 – 2 months, especially for throat dryness or swallowing issues, depends on multiple factors like stage of disease, patient’s baseline health status and other factors.
Eating soft foods, staying hydrated, and resting will speed up healing. And throughout recovery, Dr. Mukti Mukherjee and her team will check in to help you manage any symptoms.
Why Choose Dr. Mukti Mukherjee- Leading Radiation Oncologist
Choosing the right doctor is one of the most important parts of your cancer journey. Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, a reputed radiation oncologist, brings years of experience, compassion, and modern treatment planning to every patient.
Here’s what sets her apart:
- Personalised treatment plans
- Advanced radiation equipment and techniques
- A supportive and understanding approach
- Clear communication at every step
Patients say they feel heard, informed, and genuinely cared for.
Conclusion
Radiation therapy plays a vital role in treating throat cancer. Whether it’s the main treatment or part of a combined plan, it gives patients a strong chance to beat the disease and keep their quality of life intact.
From how it works to how long it lasts, understanding each step can help ease your worries. And when you’re in the hands of Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, you can trust that you’re getting the best possible care.
If you or someone you know is diagnosed with throat cancer, don’t wait. Consult Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, an experienced radiation oncologist in Kolkata, and take the first step toward recovery.