Tumor Profile, Treatment Modalities and Survival Outcomes of Head and Neck Cancers in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka: A Retrospective Study

Ora cavity cancers pose a significant global public health challenge, with diverse demographic profiles and treatment outcomes observed across different regions. This study examines the demographic characteristics, tumor profiles, treatment modalities, surgical interventions, and survival outcomes for patients with oral cavity cancers in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, India.

Data were retrospectively collected from medical records of 60 patients diagnosed and treated for oral cavity cancers between June 2018 and June 2020 at KVG Dental College and Hospital, Sullia, Dakshina Kannada. Key data points included demographic characteristics, tumor site and histopathological grade, treatment modalities, surgical procedures, and survival outcomes.

The patient cohort had a median age of 56 years, with ages ranging from 35 to 70 years, and exhibited a slight male predominance. Tumors were predominantly located in the oral tongue, buccal mucosa, gingiva, floor of mouth, and hard palate, with histological grades varying from well-differentiated to moderately differentiated. Treatment modalities included surgery alone (63.3%) or surgery combined with radiation therapy (36.7%). Surgical procedures varied from partial glossectomy to maxillectomy, and neck dissections were performed as selective, modified radical, or radical types in a significant proportion of cases. The overall 2-years survival rate was 78.3%, aligning with existing literature.

This study highlights the effectiveness of surgical interventions, particularly when combined with appropriate neck dissections, in managing oral cavity cancers in Dakshina Kannada. The findings underscore the importance of tailored treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes in this specific geographic context.