In the world of oncology or oral surgery, it’s rare to find a specialty that has so much potential for collaboration in patient care. The team at Royal Dental Clinics recognises the importance of collaboration among specialists and the patients they serve. Oral Cancer, Plastic Surgery, and Maxillofacial Surgery are all crucial to helping cancer patients thrive after treatment. In this blog post we discuss the synergies between these specialties, what they have in common with each other, and how they came together. Read on to learn more about oral Cancer unique subspecialties working together.
Cancer of the mouth most often begins as a small ulcer or lump on the tongue, cheek or gums as one of the primary Signs And Symptoms Of Oral Cancer. Statistically, at least 75% of those diagnosed with Oral Cancer are tobacco users. Those who smoke and drink have a 15 times greater risk of developing oral cancer than others. Chronic irritation from a sharp tooth is also known to initiate these changes.
30% of total cancers in India are from the Head and Neck region compared to 5% in the western world. Tobacco, betel nut and ‘paan’ chewing, and smoking and alcohol abuse are the reasons for the increased number of oral cancers in the Indian subcontinent.
Mouth Cancer
Early detection of oral cancer can be frightening, but early detection is the key to a better diagnosis by Dental Oral Surgeons. Oral cancer can develop anywhere inside your mouth, especially in the jaw region.
Oral Surgery for Cancer
Oncology, simply put, is the study of cancers. As one of the subspecialties of internal medicine, it’s devoted to diagnosing and treating the diseases that cause cancers. Oncology specialists can be trained in various fields, such as radiation oncology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, and others, each of which has its own focus and set of skills. Oncology surgeons are trained in the surgical aspects of cancer treatment, meaning they specialise in the surgeries used to diagnose and treat cancers.
Plastic Surgery: Repairing damage from Cancer
The term “plastic surgery” is a bit misleading, because it actually refers to a diverse range of specialties under the broader field of surgery. This can include removing tumors, repairing wounds, preventing infections, and more.
Maxillofacial Surgery: Reconstruction
A Maxillofacial surgery is another surgical specialty that falls under the larger umbrella of plastic surgery. Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons specialise in the reconstruction of the face and jaws, often after cancer treatment. Maxillofacial surgeons treat more than just cancer patients, but the two are closely related. Maxillofacial surgeons often work closely with oncology surgeons because they share a common goal: helping oral cancer patients heal better.
Collaboration for Oral Cancer Surgery
Oncology surgeons, oncology plastic surgeons, and maxillofacial surgeons all work closely together to ensure their patients receive the best care possible. Oncology surgeons and oncology plastic surgeons work together when removing tumors or other growths, such as an infection.
Conclusion to Oral Surgery
This article has explored the synergies between three different subspecialties in oncology, surgery, and maxillofacial surgery. Oncology surgeons and maxillofacial surgeons also work together when reconstructing facial and jaw bone. This goes to show just how closely these two subspecialties are related and how they’re working together to improve patient care.
