Kris had a PET 3 months post radiation treatment as he still had a residual bulky node. The PET showed no cancer. Yet , just a few months later on routine scoping, his tumour at the Base of Tongue was back.
He then had salvage surgery. No scans at all post surgery. None at all. Just routine scans 3 monthly. He is now 3 years and 6 months post surgery.
Remember to stay vigilant. Report pain, new lumps, bleeding, sores etc.
Tammy

Caregiver/advocate to Husband Kris age 59@ diagnosis
DX Dec '10 SCC BOT T4aN2bM0 HPV+ve.Cisplatin x3 35 IMRT.
PET 6/11 clear.
R) level 2-4 neck dissection 8/1/11 to remove residual node - necrotic with NED
Feb '12 Ca back.. 3/8/12 total glossectomy/laryngectomy/bilat neck dissection/partial pharyngectomy etc. clear margins. All nodes negative for disease. PEG in.
March 2017 - 5 years disease free. Woohoo!