Hi,
I wanted to introduce myself. I am 53, and I am currently dealing with my 3rd bout of a low grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma. In 1997 I had a single lymph node removed, but no primary was ever found. In 2009, the (possible) primary reared its head at base of tongue, also lymph nodes both sides. I had radiation/chemo in 2009, got through that fairly well and fully recovered. Now a recent scan shows activity in lymph nodes, and activity in tongue. I am facing a partial tongue resection and neck dissection, both sides. I am interested in any info on tongue resection and recovery, and also on the robotic surgery option.

Any guidance appreciated.


1997 MEC low grade
1 neck node removed--no primary,
stopped monitoring in 2003
(BIG mistake!)
2009 BOT, bilateral lymph
IMRT+Cispl
2011 recurrence, hemi-glossectomy,
margins clear, reclassified hi-grade
2012 recurrence, total G +
laryngectomy,
2013 Mets, now in chemo