My dr's told me there was a X% chance that cancer cells were present in the other tonsil. Resonable to assume then that there were a few cancer cells in the lymph nodes on that side as well. This is the reason for the radiation to both sides down to the collar bones. The machine was actually aimed from the left, the right, and straight on in three doses each visit.


Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.