Pune Cancer Center Achieves Breakthrough in Voice Preservation for Advanced Throat Cancer
In a remarkable medical achievement, advanced precision oncology at a private cancer center in Pune has enabled a 74-year-old man from Pimpri Chinchwad to overcome stage IVA throat cancer and fully regain his voice. The innovative treatment not only targeted the cancer effectively but also preserved the patient's larynx, allowing him to return to a normal, active life without the loss of vital functions.
Patient's Journey from Social Withdrawal to Recovery
The patient, a tobacco user with no prior major health issues, first noticed symptoms in 2024 when he experienced a gradual hoarseness of voice and a painless swelling on the right side of his neck. Over the subsequent three months, his voice weakened significantly, becoming difficult to project, which made simple conversations exhausting. This led to social withdrawal, as he stopped speaking much even with his family. Fear and isolation eventually compelled him to seek medical assistance.
Dr Gaurav Jaswal, director of radiation oncology at TGH Onco Life Cancer Centre in Talegaon Dabhade, explained that the patient also had mild difficulty in swallowing. A PET-CT scan conducted on October 7, 2024, revealed a cancerous lesion in the right pyriform sinus extending to the vocal cords, with involvement of nearby lymph nodes but no deeper spread. This finding was crucial as it allowed the medical team to plan a focused, organ-preserving approach.
Multidisciplinary Treatment and Advanced Technology
After evaluation by a multidisciplinary tumour board, radical chemo-radiation was advised. The patient subsequently underwent advanced helical tomotherapy with concurrent cisplatin chemotherapy. Dr Jaswal emphasized that the primary goals were larynx preservation, loco-regional disease control, and functional voice recovery. By the 16-week mark, the patient's voice had improved beyond its pre-cancer quality, and the lymph nodes had completely regressed.
On follow-up, the patient is doing well and able to speak properly. Dr Jaswal warned that any delay in treatment could have led to permanent voice loss, exacerbated swallowing difficulties, and breathing problems. He outlined post-treatment precautions, which include:
- Consuming soft, moist foods
- Performing swallowing exercises
- Practicing gentle oral care
- Avoiding spicy or rough foods
- Engaging in jaw and neck exercises
- Abstaining from smoking and alcohol
- Maintaining weight, hydration, and physical activity
- Attending regular follow-up appointments
Expert Insights on Precision Oncology
Dr Santosh Sahu, the center head, highlighted that advanced cancers no longer always mean the loss of vital functions. With precision oncology and the right technology, tumors can be targeted accurately while protecting healthy tissues. The aim is not just survival but helping patients return to their normal lives with dignity and confidence. This case reflects how timely intervention and expert planning can truly change outcomes, offering hope to many facing similar diagnoses.
The grateful patient shared his relief, stating, "I truly believed I would never be able to speak clearly again. Today, I am happy and relieved that I can talk normally with my family and friends. It feels like I have regained an important part of my life." This success story underscores the transformative potential of modern cancer treatments in preserving quality of life alongside combating disease.
