LATEST UPDATE. Well I had my Mandibulectomy and Fibula Free Flap reconstruction on the 25th of April and came home last week. The only complication was that they had to source a blood supply from the other side of my neck due to RT damage. I think all is going well. I can eat soft foods like Yogurt, scrambled eggs, porridge etc. I can swallow pills. However I do have some concerns as the hospital discharge information is very vague. For example, I was told to eat a puree diet, which i am managing and i was told to buy a baby toothbrush and carefully and gently brush my teeth and gums. I also have a boot support and a stick. All in all i think its going well, but if there is anyone out there that has any tips or advice I would love some feedback. I think I am recovering pretty well and luckily I can eat most soft foods, and can speak. I am now day 25 post surgery and was checked over at the hospital a few days ago. Getting information is very difficult. For example, I am concerned about the amount of swelling I have in my mouth, lips and jaw. This doesn't seem to be reducing. The medics say that it can "take a while", but won't offer any time indication or schedule or estimate. They have said it looks fine. I did have 33 sessions of RT after the first surgery in 2021 and I assume that this will slow down the healing process, but any information found via Google suggest swelling for 2 to 3 weeks. Can anyone offer their experiences with this type of surgery.
Brian
