Throat cancer treatment can affect voice, swallowing and breathing, because the structures involved in speech and swallowing sit close to or within the areas being treated. How much function is affected depends on where the cancer is, how large it is, and which treatment is recommended.
Treatment for throat cancer is not decided on cancer control alone. The likely effect on voice, swallowing and breathing is weighed alongside cancer control when surgery, radiation therapy, chemoradiotherapy or a combination is being considered. This weighing happens within multidisciplinary head and neck cancer care, where surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, speech pathologists and other clinicians review the case together.
The effect of treatment varies considerably and depends on the specific cancer and treatment used.
Surgery that removes or alters tissue involved in swallowing or voice production can cause temporary or, less commonly, longer-term changes. Radiation therapy and chemoradiotherapy can cause swelling, dryness and stiffness in the treated tissues, which can also affect swallowing and voice, sometimes for months after treatment finishes.
Some patients notice little change. Others experience a significant, though often temporary, effect during and immediately after treatment. Dr Crawford discusses the likely effect of the specific treatment being considered before it begins, so that patients understand what to expect.
Speech pathology may be involved before, during or after treatment depending on the cancer, treatment and individual needs.
Some patients are assessed before treatment begins, so that a baseline of swallowing and voice function is recorded and expectations are set. Others are seen during or after treatment, once changes have occurred, to guide rehabilitation.
Where rehabilitation is needed, it may include swallowing exercises, strategies for safer eating and drinking, and voice therapy. The type, intensity and duration of support depend on the treatment received and how function has been affected.
Dr Crawford is a Sydney ENT and head and neck surgeon. Head and neck cancer surgery is a central part of her practice, and treatment is planned through multidisciplinary teams.
Patients with a suspected or confirmed throat cancer can be seen at Sydney ENT Clinic in Darlinghurst or Kogarah, or through Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. A valid referral from your GP or another medical specialist is required to claim Medicare rebates.
Our team can assist with appointment enquiries and help arrange a consultation with Dr Julia Crawford at one of her three Sydney consulting locations:
Dr Julia Crawford consults for head and neck conditions, head and neck cancer, thyroid and salivary gland disease, obstructive sleep apnoea, paediatric ENT and selected general ENT problems.
Her team can assist with arranging an appointment at Darlinghurst, Kogarah or Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, and will help ensure the appropriate information and investigations are available before your consultation.