Follow Ups

Depending upon the nature and extent of the surgery, the patient will be discharged within 5-7 days after surgery. The patient will also have stitches in place at time of discharge, which are usually removed at first or second follow up visits.

In some cases, the patient may be discharged with –

• Nasogastric feeding tube

• Tracheostomy tube

• Drains from the postoperative site

The hospital team will give you a definite date of first follow up after discharge, which is usually after 2 days. Based on the extent of surgery, you will be expected to visit OPD every 3-4 days for two weeks. Hence, it is advisable to rent a room close to the hospital to facilitate these follow-up visits. This will also make it convenient to visit the hospital in case of an emergency.

After two-three weeks, or once the wounds have fully healed and the final report ahs been discussed, the patient may or may not be advised adjuvant therapy (RT/CTRT). After completion of all treatment, the patient will be asked to follow up every 3 months for the first two years, and then every six months. In certain specific circumstances, the doctor may ask you to visit more frequently.

Visit the OPD immediately in case of the following situations -

A new ulcer in the mouth for more than 2 weeks

• Bleeding from the mouth or throat

• Excessive Coughing with or without blood

• Any neck lump/swelling

• Any new swelling over the body

• New feeling of pain anywhere in the body

Apart from these follow-up visits, feel free to visit the OPD in case of emergencies. Avoid getting any unnecessary investigations such as CT/MRI/PET scans unless advised by the doctor.The patient and one caregiver are also eligible for travel concession for each follow-up visit. If you feel that it may be of benefit to you, kindly remind the doctor to mention the same on your file.