Celebrating our first patient to have cancer after-effects improved by Botox at Croydon
For the first time, specialist clinicians at Croydon University Hospital have used Botox to return a patients’ appearance and mouth function after cancer surgery – increasing their confidence and quality of life.
The Hospital is now launching the same treatment for other patients with cancer or salivary gland problems, expecting to help more than 10 people every year.
This will especially benefit patients who have difficulty travelling, bringing all their care under one roof without having to travel further for the Botox part of their treatment.
Christine, age 68 from Kenley, was diagnosed with tongue cancer in July 2018 and needed part of her tongue and neck to be surgically removed to save her life.
Following Christine’s surgery, the Croydon team used Botox to return her mouth to symmetry and give her back everyday function, completing her care apart from a potential top-up in six to nine months.
Christine said:
“I’m overjoyed with the results. I look as I had before and my speech improved. During the procedure, it was an additional comfort to know that the surgeons who knew me well and helped to remove my cancer were only corridors away from where I was now having my Botox. I want to thank all the teams at Croydon University Hospital and, previously, St George’s for what they’ve done for me.”
The lead consultant of the Maxillofacial team at Croydon who applied the treatments, Professor Kavin Andi, said:
“We often think of Botox as a cosmetic treatment however, Christine and many other cancer patients will now benefit from the functional and aesthetic improvement of their lower faces through this simple treatment which is part of the now established Oral Cancer Rehabilitation Clinic, a local specialist service for local patients.’
Dr Vathana Ketheeswaranathan, Specialty Doctor in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, added:
“This is a great example of changes to care that make it more effective and accessible for patients. Christine has been fantastic and we look forward to helping many more people in future.”