Oncology

Head and Neck Cancer Treatment in Istanbul

Head and neck cancers include tumours of the mouth, the throat (pharynx) and the voice box (larynx). Smoking and alcohol are the main risk factors, and some throat cancers are linked to HPV. Because treatment can affect speech, swallowing and appearance, it calls for an experienced team approach. New City Clinic coordinates assessment and treatment with the ENT and oncology teams of its partner hospitals in Istanbul.

Assessment and diagnosis

Before a treatment plan is made, the type and stage of the disease are established. This usually involves:

  • ENT examination and endoscopy (fibreoptic examination)
  • Biopsy and pathology; HPV (p16) testing for throat tumours
  • CT or MRI of the head and neck
  • PET-CT for staging

Treatment approaches

The tumour board plans treatment according to the site and stage of the tumour and the chance of preserving speech and swallowing. For early-stage tumours, surgery or radiotherapy alone may be enough; for suitable larynx and throat tumours, laser or robotic surgery through the mouth can be used. Advanced disease is treated with surgery followed by radiotherapy, or with chemoradiotherapy (chemotherapy and radiotherapy given together) aimed at preserving the larynx. Neck lymph nodes are removed where needed and tissues are repaired with reconstructive surgery. Voice and swallowing rehabilitation, nutritional support and dental care are part of the plan during and after treatment.

  • Surgery: transoral laser or robotic surgery for suitable tumours, neck dissection and reconstruction
  • Radiotherapy
  • Chemoradiotherapy; immunotherapy and targeted therapy in advanced disease
  • Voice and swallowing rehabilitation, nutritional support

The tumour board decides which methods are used and in what order. The treatment plan is determined after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests.

For patients from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

New City Clinic coordinates oncology care for patients travelling from European countries, the Middle East and Africa. Istanbul has direct flights from many capitals in these regions, and the assessment starts from your reports before you travel.

  • You can send your reports in English or in your own language; the necessary translations are arranged.
  • Check the visa or e-visa requirements for your passport on the official Turkish government website (evisa.gov.tr); once your treatment is planned, your appointment is confirmed in writing by the hospital.
  • Airport welcome, accommodation close to the hospital and arrangements for a companion are organised.
  • Your treatment summary is prepared in English so that you can share it with your oncologist at home.

Partner hospitals with oncology centres

Oncology care is coordinated at the following partner hospitals, which have oncology centres. The hospital is chosen according to your condition, your physician and your preference.

How the process works

  1. 1

    Send your documents

    Pathology report, imaging reports and images, discharge summaries and a list of your medication.

  2. 2

    Physician’s review

    Your file goes to the relevant oncology physician; missing tests and a possible pathway are set out for you in writing.

  3. 3

    Plan and quote

    The expected tests, treatment steps, length of stay and itemised costs are given in writing.

  4. 4

    Treatment in Istanbul

    Airport welcome, accommodation, appointments and interpreting are organised by New City Clinic.

  5. 5

    Follow-up

    You receive your treatment summary and reports to share with your physician at home.

Frequently asked questions

Will I lose my voice with laryngeal cancer?

In early-stage disease the voice is usually preserved with surgery or radiotherapy. In advanced disease, treatments that preserve the larynx are preferred whenever possible; if the larynx must be removed, there are ways to restore speech, such as a voice prosthesis.

How long does radiotherapy take, and do I need to stay in Istanbul?

Radiotherapy to the head and neck is usually given every weekday for 6–7 weeks, so you need to stay in Istanbul for the course of treatment. New City Clinic arranges your accommodation and transfers.

Which documents should I send?

The pathology report, CT/MRI/PET-CT reports and, if possible, the images themselves, operation and discharge reports, blood tests and your medication list.

Can you give any assurance about the outcome?

No. No institution can guarantee the result of cancer treatment. Your physician will explain expectations and risks for your situation openly.

How is the cost determined?

It depends on the tests required and on the type and length of treatment. An itemised written quote follows the physician’s assessment.

Other cancer types

Back to the oncology section

This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. A treatment plan is determined only after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests. In an emergency, contact your local medical services.

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