The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and requires tracheal intubation, which may damage the mucous membrane of the throat. You may feel discomfort in your throat after surgery, with coughing and painful swallowing.
Usually no medication is needed. You can protect the wound with the palm of your hand if you have a violent cough to prevent postoperative bleeding from vigorous neck movement.
You can eat warm, cool foods to relieve symptoms starting the day after surgery, and it usually heals after a week.
Co-written by Dr. Qing Guan, Cancer Hospital of Fudan University