What to expect from tumour removal surgery for head and neck cancer

The surgeon removes the tumour with a margin of nearby tissue. Lymph nodes in the neck may be assessed or removed because this can help stage the cancer and guide further care. Some operations need reconstruction using tissue from another area to restore shape or function. Depending on the site, surgery can affect speech, chewing, swallowing, breathing, facial movement, or neck movement for a period of time.

A temporary feeding tube, drain, or airway support may be used. A speech and language therapist, dietitian, physiotherapist, or specialist nurse may help during recovery. Pathology examines the removed tissue and lymph nodes, and the results help the team decide whether further treatment is needed.

Tell the team about medicines, dental problems, tobacco or nicotine use, and any difficulty swallowing or speaking before the operation. Ask what you may eat and drink before anaesthesia and whether dental review is needed. Plan help with meals, washing, transport, and communication while your mouth, throat, or neck heals.

Use only the wound, mouth-care, and pain-relief instructions provided by your team. Attend therapy even if progress feels gradual; exercises can help protect swallowing, voice, shoulder, and neck function. Keep follow-up visits for wound review and pathology results.

Call the surgical team for worsening swelling, redness, drainage, wound opening, feverishness, or pain that is becoming harder to control. Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, rapidly increasing neck swelling, heavy bleeding, chest pain, or inability to swallow saliva. Persistent vomiting or signs of dehydration also need prompt assessment.

Will lymph nodes or nearby structures be removed? Could I need reconstruction, a feeding tube, or temporary airway support? How might the operation affect speech, swallowing, appearance, or shoulder movement? When can therapy start, and when will pathology guide the next step?