Frequently Asked Questions

Oral cancer is the commonest cancer and cause of cancer-related death in Indian men[cite: 16]. Unfortunately, about two-thirds of head and neck cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, resulting in poor 5-year survival rates[cite: 21, 38]. Early screening and detection of precancerous lesions can significantly reduce mortality and morbidity[cite: 18].

Yes. Studies show a significant risk reduction in the risk of oral cancer within the first four years of smoking cessation, and the risk reduces to that of non-smokers after 20 years[cite: 66].

Voice preservation is a top priority. Dr. Tiwari utilizes advanced intraoperative nerve monitoring to identify and safely preserve the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve during surgery. While temporary hoarseness can occur, permanent voice loss is rare unless the tumor has directly invaded the vocal cords.

A free flap is a microvascular procedure where tissue, skin, or bone (like the fibula bone from the leg) is detached along with its blood supply and transplanted to the face or jaw. The tiny blood vessels are then reconnected under a microscope to restore live blood flow.

Yes. The fibula is a non-weight-bearing bone. While you will need assistance walking for the first few weeks as the donor site heals, you will eventually be able to walk, run, and resume normal physical activities.

Because it often involves removing the cancer and rebuilding the facial defect simultaneously, these highly complex surgeries typically take between 8 to 14 hours.

PIT is a targeted cancer treatment currently in global trials. It uses a specific drug that binds only to cancer cells, which is then activated by non-thermal Near-Infrared red light, causing the cancer cells to burst without harming surrounding healthy tissue.

Eligibility is strictly governed by trial protocols, generally focusing on patients with recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinomas that cannot be surgically removed. Dr. Tiwari, as a Field Clinical Trainer, can evaluate your specific medical history to determine eligibility.

Yes, most comprehensive health insurance policies cover oncological surgeries and necessary reconstructions. We recommend checking your specific policy regarding copays and waiting periods.

Yes, cashless hospitalization is available at our affiliated corporate hospitals (like Desun and Charnock) through major Third Party Administrators (TPAs).

You will need your Insurance Policy Card, Govt ID Proof (Aadhar/PAN), previous biopsy/scan reports, and consultation papers. Our billing team will assist you with the TPA pre-authorization process.