An Update from Dr Shanmugasundaram Ramkumar
When you are facing a complex head and neck cancer diagnosis, you need more than advanced treatment options, you need clarity, reassurance, and confidence that your care is being led by an experienced specialist who understands both the science and the personal impact of cancer, and who can provide an individualised, tailor-made treatment plan for you.
I am a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specialising in the non-surgical treatment of head and neck cancer and skull base tumours, with national and international leadership in head and neck cancer research, postgraduate medical education, and advanced evidence-based radiotherapy techniques. I have a strong track record in translational research, policy impact, and clinical–academic collaboration. With over 30 years’ experience in oncology and more than 12 years specialising in proton beam therapy, my focus is on delivering highly precise cancer treatment while protecting long-term quality of life and minimising treatment-related toxicities.
Private Appointments in London, Southampton and Windsor
I offer private oncology appointments in London, Southampton, and Windsor, providing access to specialist cancer care across London and the South East.
I also hold an NHS Consultant Clinical Oncologist position at University Hospital Southampton and an Honorary Consultant Clinical Oncologist position at University College London Hospital, ensuring close alignment with national best practice and multidisciplinary cancer services.
Patients attending my private London clinic at Proton International London benefit from personalised continuity of care, from initial consultation or second opinion through to treatment planning, delivery, and follow-up. I take time to explain diagnoses, treatment options, and expected outcomes clearly, so you feel fully informed and supported throughout your care.
Specialist Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer
I specialise in treating head and neck cancers, including cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, salivary glands, and skull base tumours.
These cancers often develop close to critical structures such as the brain, spinal cord, optic nerves, swallowing structures, and salivary glands, where treatment precision is essential to preserve speech, swallowing, vision, and hearing.
Alongside head and neck cancer, I also treat selected central nervous system (CNS) tumours, skin cancers, and recurrent cancers, and regularly provide second opinions where treatment decisions are complex or require highly specialist input.
All treatment recommendations are evidence-based and multidisciplinary, guided by the latest clinical research and national and international guidelines.
Proton Beam Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer
A key area of my practice is proton beam therapy, an advanced form of radiotherapy that allows radiation to be delivered with exceptional precision.
For selected patients with head and neck cancer, proton beam therapy can significantly reduce radiation dose beyond the tumour, helping to minimise exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This is particularly important where tumours are close to the brain, spinal cord, optic nerves, and salivary glands, and can make a meaningful difference to swallowing, speech, hearing, vision, and long-term quality of life.
A recent MD Anderson clinical trial has demonstrated improved overall survival and quality-of-life outcomes with proton beam therapy compared with standard IMRT radiotherapy, including reduced feeding tube dependence, fewer swallowing difficulties, less dry mouth, and higher immune cell counts.
I have been closely involved in the development and delivery of proton beam therapy in the UK and internationally, treating many complex head and neck cancer and skull base tumour patients, improving clinical outcomes and quality of life, and contributing to national best practice and clinical trials.
I currently run my private proton therapy clinics from Proton International London, the UK’s only private proton beam therapy centre.
While proton beam therapy is not suitable for every patient, I assess each case individually and provide honest, unbiased, and evidence-based advice on whether proton therapy or another advanced radiotherapy technique offers the best balance of effectiveness and safety.
A Personalised, Evidence-Led Cancer Treatment Approach
Every patient I see receives a personalised treatment plan based on their diagnosis, anatomy, co-existing medical conditions, and individual circumstances.
My practice combines:
- Advanced radiotherapy techniques, including IMRT and stereotactic radiotherapy
- Proton beam therapy where clinically appropriate
- Chemotherapy and immunotherapy for selected cancers
- Re-irradiation (a second course of radiotherapy) for recurrent cancer
- Supportive treatments to reduce treatment-related side effects
My aim is always to achieve the best possible cancer control while preserving function and quality of life, and to support you throughout your cancer journey.
Booking Private Appointments in London or a Second Opinion
You may be referred to me by your GP or specialist, or you may self-refer for private cancer care in London, Southampton, or Windsor.
I welcome patients seeking a second opinion, clarity on treatment options, or specialist input for head and neck cancer and complex recurrent tumours.
Private appointments can be arranged via my website. My medical secretary can advise on clinic availability, referral requirements, and next steps, helping to make the process as straightforward as possible.
Compassionate Expertise You Can Trust
My approach combines advanced clinical expertise with compassion, honesty, and clear communication. Patients consistently describe my calm, approachable manner and my commitment to explaining every stage of treatment with care and to being there throughout their cancer journey.
Whether you are newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer, exploring proton beam therapy, or seeking private oncology appointments in London, I offer expert, personalised cancer care focused on precision, evidence, and your long-term wellbeing.
