Oropharyngeal Cancer

Have oncology indicated that they are happy with the results of the surgeries? 

Unfortunately we all live with the fear of recurrence but this lessens as time passes.

Hi

I am awaiting the results, but the surgeon was very optimistic 

That's very good news. 

Adjuvant radiation therapy is sometimes given after surgery to improve treatment outcomes. It helps to mop up any remaining cancer cells and reduce the chance of the cancer coming back in the same area...but if oncology are happy with surgery outcomes you may avoid radiotherapy.

How are you doing?

Over 2 years since chemoradiotherapy for tonsil and neck cancer finished, no surgery.

Recovery took a while, doing well now, reviews every 6 months.

Going to Tenerife shortly.

Like most patients I have a few little issues, nothing to get worried about.

That’s great news, Well Done you. Enjoy your holiday. 

SuzieLC9d7053 said:

I am awaiting the results, but the surgeon was very optimistic 

Fingers crossed for you. Have you had your results through yet?

Hi Suzie. I was diagnosed with tonsil cancer which had spread to my lymph nodes almost exactly 5 years ago. I had surgery to remove the tonsil and lymph nodes and, after they concluded that the margins were ‘a bit tight’, they decided I should have chemoradiation to mop any stray cells up. I am absolutely fine 5 years on.
There is an extremely high success rate for curing (not just managing) this nasty disease with or without surgery, so please do be optimistic. I have had dark days and the odd scare in the intervening 5 years but am alive and kicking and living life normally.  
I am also enjoying my little grandson who was born last year. What a gift my team have given me!  

Hey Mark...Lovely to hear from you and well you are doing. Five years! Blimey! Time flies. I'm now chasing seven.

Hi

6 weeks post surgery and I’ve developed left sided paralysis of my mouth, along with pain deep in the neck area

The consultant says the paralysis is something they usually see straight after surgery & he’s never seen it this late post op

Is this something you’ve ever come across and if so, Is it permanent?

I’m not a vain person but am finding myself self conscious, especially when smiling and speaking