Thyroid cancer has been steadily rising across the world, with global estimates crossing 586,000 new cases annually. In India alone, thyroid cancer accounts for nearly 3–4% of all cancers, affecting people across different age groups. With improved diagnosis and treatment options, many patients recover well and lead fulfilling lives.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a distinguished thyroid cancer expert in Bangalore, India, says,

“RAI therapy has transformed thyroid cancer care. It allows us to target remaining thyroid tissue with precision, improving long-term outcomes. Over the years, I’ve seen patients regain confidence because this therapy helps prevent recurrence and supports safer recovery. It’s one of the strongest tools we rely on in thyroid cancer management.”

Radiation damages the DNA of cancer cells, ultimately stopping them from multiplying. Early in the 1900s, researchers found that cancer cells responded strongly to certain forms. By mid-century, doctors discovered that radioactive iodine could selectively destroy thyroid cells, an exciting moment that reshaped thyroid cancer treatment worldwide.

Dr. Abhilasha Sadhoo, a prominenthead and neck surgeon in Bangalore, shares, “The history of radiotherapy reminds us how innovation shaped modern cancer care. Each discovery opened the door to more precise treatments. In thyroid cancer, RAI stands out because it works with the body’s chemistry rather than against it. Many patients feel empowered knowing that progress in science directly supports their healing journey.”

Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy is a targeted treatment commonly used for certain types of thyroid cancer, mainlypapillary and follicular cancers.

Dr. Nayak, a prominent surgical oncologist in Bangalore, shares,

“Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy helps destroy leftover thyroid tissue or microscopic cancer cells that can’t be removed surgically. What makes this treatment unique is that thyroid cells naturally absorb iodine, allowing RAI to work only where it’s needed.”

Here’s how it works:

• Your thyroid cells naturally absorb iodine from your bloodstream.
• When you take RAI (usually as a capsule or liquid), the remaining thyroid cells, including any leftover cancer cells, absorb the radioactive iodine.

Once inside these cells, the radiation slowly destroys them from within, while the rest of your body stays largely unaffected because other tissues don’t take up iodine the same way.

Dr. Athira Ramakrishnan, an accomplished endoscopic skull base surgeon in Bangalore, explains, “RAI works because thyroid cells behave differently from other cells in the body. Their natural iodine uptake provides a safe pathway for delivering treatment. I’ve seen how effective RAI can be, especially when the dosage is tailored thoughtfully. Patients often feel reassured knowing the therapy works quietly inside the body without drastic discomfort.”

RAI therapy is a very targeted and efficient treatment option, especially after thyroid surgery, to clean up any remaining thyroid tissue. Its ability to target and safely destroy thyroid cells reduces the risk of recurrence and gives patients a strong chance of long-term recovery.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak concludes, “With growing awareness, improved technology, and supportive care, more patients experience smooth treatment journeys and better lives after radioactive iodine treatment.”

Dr. Sandeep Nayak and his team continue to guide patients with care and clarity through every stage of treatment atMACS Clinic, a dedicated facility for advanced Cancer Treatment in Bangalore. Their commitment to helping individuals navigate cancer has made a meaningful difference in how patients understand and approach their recovery.

References;

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/radioactive-iodine-therapy

https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/radioiodine

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.

Lung cancer remains one of the most widespread cancers worldwide, with close to 2.2 million new cases every year. In India alone, it ranks among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, especially among men. The need for accurate treatment information is higher than ever.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a respected surgical oncologist in India, frequently emphasizes how radiotherapy has transformed lung cancer care: “Patients often underestimate how precise modern radiotherapy has become. The ability to target tumours without heavily affecting surrounding lung tissue has changed survival outcomes. Many people live longer and better because of timely radiation treatment.”

This page outlines techniques, benefits, risks, timelines, and when radiotherapy is typically recommended.

Doctors select the technique based on the tumour’s size, location, and the health of the surrounding lung tissue.

Here’s how the main types work:

External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT)

This is the most common technique. An external device sends targeted beams to the tumour. It’s painless, noninvasive, and often used across different stages of lung cancer. EBRT has improved significantly over the years, thanks to imaging-guided tools that help doctors avoid healthy organs.

Brachytherapy

This involves placing a tiny radioactive source inside or very close to the tumour. It’s usually used when a tumour blocks the airway or causes bleeding. Because the radiation stays highly focused, brachytherapy may help relieve symptoms quickly.

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

Historically, radiotherapy was discovered more than a century ago when researchers observed that X-rays could shrink tumours. Over time, safer machines, imaging support, and advanced planning tools made it one of the most reliable treatments for lung cancer.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an acclaimed surgical oncologist based in Bangalore, explains, “Radiotherapy has shifted from broad, generalized beams to sharply defined radiation sculpting. Patients today receive far safer and more effective treatments. This shift has contributed significantly to better lung cancer radiotherapy success rates.”

Consultation and Planning

You’ll first meet the oncology team. Scans such as CT or PET help map the tumour. A personalized plan is created to ensure that radiation is delivered only to the required area.

Treatment Sessions

Sessions are usually short, lasting just a few minutes. You lie on a table while the machine moves around you. It doesn’t touch your body, and many patients say it feels like getting an X-ray.

Radiation Delivery

The machine delivers beams from different angles. You won’t feel the radiation, but you may hear soft buzzing sounds. Depending on the plan, treatment may continue for several days or weeks.

Dr. Nisha Vishnu, a seasoned Radiation Oncologist in Bangalore, adds, “People often worry about the experience, but modern radiotherapy is surprisingly smooth. Most patients tolerate it very well. The focus today is on comfort, speed, and accuracy, which helps reduce overall stress.”

Tumour control:

It helps shrink or destroy cancer cells, improving breathing and reducing symptoms like coughing or chest pain.

Non-invasive:

There’s no surgery involved, making it suitable for patients who cannot undergo an operation.

Precision:

Techniques such as SBRT help treat small tumours with remarkable accuracy.

Combination potential:

It is effective when used alongside surgery or chemotherapy to improve outcomes.

Fatigue:

Many patients feel tired during or after treatment.

Skin irritation:

The treated area may feel warm or sensitive.

Cough or mild breathing difficulty:

Radiation can temporarily inflame lung tissue.
Changes in swallowing or appetite: Especially if the radiation area is close to the food pipe.

Some older adults often ask how radiotherapy might affect them differently.

“What about radiation treatment for lung cancer? Are there elderly side effects?”

In many cases, the side effects remain manageable, but doctors prefer to monitor more closely to ensure breathing, energy levels, and appetite remain stable throughout the treatment period. With regular monitoring, most concerns can be addressed early and effectively.

Early-stage lung cancer:

Especially when surgery isn’t an option—SBRT is commonly used.

Locally advanced cancer:

It may be combined with chemotherapy to improve survival.

Palliative care:

Helps relieve pain, bleeding, or breathing problems.

Post-surgery:

Sometimes used to ensure no cancer cells remain.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an insightful surgical oncologist in Bangalore, says, “Choosing radiotherapy depends on tumour behaviour, overall health, and treatment goals. Some patients need tumour control, while others need symptom relief. Tailoring the plan to the individual always produces better outcomes.”

References;

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22298-stereotactic-body-radiation-therapy-sbrt

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/lung-cancer/treatment/chemoradiotherapy/having-chemoradiotherapy

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.

Breast surgery has evolved significantly with advances in technology and surgical precision. Today, minimally invasive breast surgery is transforming the way breast cancer and other breast conditions are treated.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a globally recognized surgical oncologist in India, is a pioneer in robotic and laparoscopic cancer treatments. At MACS Clinic, he has refined the approach to breast surgery in India, delivering safe, cosmetically superior outcomes for patients.

As Dr. Nayak explains, this advanced technique “achieves the same oncological goals as open surgery but through a much smaller incision, preserving both form and function.”

Minimally invasive breast surgery (also called endoscopic breast surgery) is an advanced procedure performed through small incisions, typically around 3 cm, often hidden in the armpit. Specialized instruments and an endoscopic camera allow the surgeon to view and operate precisely inside the breast tissue.

This technique can be used for breast lump removal, breast cancer excision, or even lymph node sampling from the axilla (armpit). It provides excellent cancer control while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.

Unlike conventional open procedures that require larger cuts on the breast, minimally invasive methods aim to remove the tumor or affected tissue without visible breast scars, hence often called scarless breast surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery can be adapted for different breast conditions:

• Endoscopic Breast-Conserving Surgery: Removal of the cancerous lump while preserving the rest of the breast.
• Endoscopic Mastectomy: Complete breast removal using endoscopic tools, usually combined with reconstruction.
• Endoscopic Axillary Surgery: Lymph node biopsy or clearance through the same small incision in the armpit.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak emphasizes that the oncological outcomes are as effective as traditional open surgery, but with added patient-centered advantages:

• Scarless healing: The incision is discreetly placed in the armpit, leaving the breast surface unscarred.
• Preserved breast sensation: Minimal tissue disruption helps retain natural sensation.
• Reduced complications: Smaller incisions lower the risk of infection and postoperative pain.
• Faster recovery: Most patients return to routine activities sooner.
• Better cosmetic results: Patients maintain breast shape and symmetry.

These benefits make it a preferred choice for eligible patients seeking both medical safety and aesthetic satisfaction.

Minimally invasive breast surgery is suitable for many individuals, but certain conditions determine eligibility. Ideal candidates include:

• Patients diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer are suitable for breast-conserving surgery.
• Those requiring breast lump removal for benign conditions.
• Individuals with small to moderate tumor sizes relative to breast volume.
• Patients are seeking scarless breast surgery for better cosmetic results.
• Cases requiring axillary lymph node dissection or biopsy through minimal access.

The final decision depends on tumor size, location, spread, and overall health status.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia. A 3 cm incision is made discreetly in the armpit. Through this, an endoscopic camera and specialized instruments are inserted.

The tumor or lump is carefully removed using advanced visualization. At the same time, the axillary lymph nodes, which play a key role in staging breast cancer, can be sampled or cleared through the same incision.

As Dr. Nayak explains, “The surgical steps are identical to open surgery lumpectomy and lymph node removal, but the approach is entirely different. We achieve the same goal with far less visible impact.”

Once the tumor and necessary tissues are removed, the incision is closed with fine sutures, leaving minimal external marks.

Because of the minimal incision and reduced tissue trauma, patients typically experience:

• Shorter hospital stay, many go home within 1–2 days.
• Less postoperative pain compared to open surgery.
• Faster wound healing and minimal swelling.
• Early return to normal activities, often within a week.

Follow-up visits focus on wound assessment, pathology review, and planning any additional therapy, such as radiation or chemotherapy, if required.

While endoscopic breast surgery offers numerous advantages, it may not be suitable for all patients. Possible limitations include:

• Large or multiple tumors requiring extensive tissue removal.
• Advanced cancer with skin or chest wall involvement.
• Previous radiation or scarring that may limit access.

As with any surgery, there are small risks of bleeding, infection, or fluid collection, but these are considerably reduced due to the minimal incision size.

Minimally invasive breast surgery represents a significant leap in modern oncology, blending advanced technology with patient comfort. It achieves excellent cancer control while preserving appearance and quality of life.
This approach is more than a cosmetic improvement; it is a testament to how far cancer care has progressed in making treatments both effective and empathetic.

Reference

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5351487/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6989909/

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.

The throat, one of the most vital parts of the human body, carries our breath, allows us to swallow food, and enables us to speak. Any disease that affects the throat can deeply disrupt daily life, sometimes in ways people don’t expect. Among these conditions, throat cancer stands as a serious health challenge, impacting both quality of life and survival.

Globally, approximately 7,50,000 new cases of head and neck cancers are diagnosed each year, with a significant portion being throat-related cancers. In India alone, a substantial portion of head and neck cancers forms a large share of the 1.3 million cancer cases recorded annually, often linked to tobacco and alcohol consumption.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a renowned surgical oncologist from Bangalore, explains:

“Throat cancer is not just a disease of the voice box; it is a condition that can affect swallowing, breathing, and even emotional well-being. The key to overcoming this challenge lies in awareness, early diagnosis, and access to modern treatment options.”

The main areas include:

Pharynx: This tube runs behind your nose to your esophagus and is divided into three parts:

• Nasopharynx (behind the nose)
• Oropharynx (middle of the throat, includes tonsils)
• Hypopharynx (bottom of the throat before the esophagus)

Larynx (Voice box): Located just below the pharynx, this structure contains the vocal cords.

Within these areas, different types of throat cancers can occur:

Glottic cancer: Starts in the vocal cords.

Supraglottic cancer: Occurs above the vocal cords.

Subglottic cancer: Found below the vocal cords.

Oropharyngeal cancer: Affects the tonsils, base of the tongue, and surrounding tissues.

Why does this matter?

Because the type and location determine the symptoms you may notice and the treatment plan doctors recommend. For instance, glottic cancers may first present with persistent hoarseness, while hypopharyngeal cancers are often silent until advanced stages.

Dr. Nayak, a pioneering expert in minimally invasive oncology, notes:

“The exact site of throat cancer helps doctors decide not just the surgery, but also whether radiation or chemotherapy is needed. Each type brings unique challenges, but with modern technology, we can preserve voice, swallowing, and appearance in most cases.”

The leading causes and risk factors include:

Tobacco use: Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco are the strongest contributors.

Alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking combined with tobacco increases the risk several-fold.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain HPV strains are linked to oropharyngeal cancers.

Dietary factors: A lack of fruits and vegetables reduces natural protection against cancer.

Age and gender: Men over 50 are at higher risk, although cases in younger individuals are rising.

Family history: A genetic predisposition can also increase susceptibility to certain conditions.

The good news?

Many of these risk factors, like tobacco and alcohol, are preventable.

The key symptoms include:

• Hoarseness or voice changes lasting more than 2 weeks
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or pain while eating
• Persistent sore throat or the feeling of something stuck
• Swelling or lump in the neck that does not go away
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
• Ear pain (especially in oropharyngeal cancers)
• Coughing up blood in advanced cases

Dr. Nayak, an acclaimed cancer surgeon in Bangalore, advises:

“One of the most important messages for the public is not to ignore hoarseness or a lump in the neck that lasts beyond two weeks. While not every symptom means cancer, timely evaluation can make the difference between a small, curable tumor and advanced disease.”

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. In modern oncology, the goal is not just survival, but also preserving speech, swallowing, and quality of life.

The main treatment approaches include:

Surgery

Minimally invasive procedures like transoral laser or robotic surgery are preferred when possible.

Advanced surgeries may involve the removal of part of the throat or voice box, with reconstruction to restore function.

Radiation therapy

High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells.

Often used for early-stage cancers or combined with surgery/chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy

Drugs are administered orally or through IV to kill cancer cells.

Usually combined with radiation in advanced stages.

Targeted therapy & Immunotherapy

These modern approaches attack specific cancer cell mechanisms or boost the immune system.

The choice of treatment is highly personalized. In India, advanced centers like MACS Clinic in Bangalore now offer minimally invasiverobotic surgery, which reduces recovery time and improves outcomes. Globally, the overall 5-year survival rate ranges from 60% to 65%, although this varies depending on the site, stage, and access to treatment.

It’s easy to dismiss early throat cancer symptoms as minor issues. However, medical experts emphasize that early medical evaluation is key. You should consult a doctor if you notice:

• Hoarseness, sore throat, or cough lasting beyond 2–3 weeks.
• A lump or swelling in the neck.
• Trouble swallowing food or liquids.
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
• Prompt evaluation often allows for simpler treatment with better outcomes.

References:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23136-throat-cancer

https://www.mdanderson.org/cancer-types/throat-cancer.html

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.