Among the most exacting work in radiation oncology — critical structures sit millimetres from the target. Highly conformal IMRT shapes the dose to protect swallowing, salivary and other vital functions wherever possible.
Head & neck radiation demands millimetre precision: the target sits among the structures that let you swallow, speak and taste. Conformal IMRT is what makes sparing them possible.
Radiation may be the primary treatment or given after surgery, frequently combined with chemotherapy for more advanced disease. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with daily image guidance shapes the dose tightly around the tumour and the at-risk lymph nodes.
Treatment runs daily over several weeks. Side effects build through the course and are actively managed; Dr. Bhatnagar's research has specifically examined swallowing-sparing and the management of treatment-related effects in this setting.
The targets sit millimetres from structures that control swallowing, speech and saliva. Highly conformal IMRT is used to shape the dose around them, which is why planning takes care and time.
Taste usually dulls during treatment and recovers over the months afterwards. Dryness is the more persistent effect; sparing the salivary glands is a specific goal of the plan.
Swallowing often becomes sore in the later weeks. A dietitian is involved early, soft high-calorie foods help, and a feeding tube is occasionally needed for a period.
Yes — a dental review before starting is important, as any necessary extractions are much safer done beforehand.
Typically six to seven weeks of daily sessions, sometimes with chemotherapy alongside.
General information, not a substitute for a consultation. Your plan depends on your reports, stage and general health — discuss your case with Dr. Bhatnagar.
Bring your reports and scans for a consultation — he will tell you plainly whether radiation has a role.
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