Posted By: Richard T. Mandible reconstruction by Dr. Marx? - 03-23-2012 02:01 AM
Hello;
In December 2011 I had a hemi-mandibulectomy performed by Dr. Robert Marx in Miami for radiation-induced osteosarcoma. He is prominent in his field and I am comfortable with him. I am now receiving chemotherapy just to make sure that all the cancer cells are gone. This summer I plan on going back to Miami for reconstruction of the mandible using BMP (bone morphogenic protein) to encourage me to grow a new mandible. Is there anyone on this forum who has had this done before? I would love to hear about your recovery and outcome.
Posted By: ChristineB Re: Mandible reconstruction by Dr. Marx? - 03-23-2012 12:05 PM
This is new for the OCF forum. I have read about doctors building lab created trachea before but never for a new jawbone to be grown. Please keep us posted about this revolutionary procedure! There really might be hope for me to return to a normal looking person after all.

One thing I feel I need to mention. Chemo by itself is not normally used to kill SCC. This is usually only done for palliative care when all other options are have run out. Im especially curious as to why your doctor would put you on chemo when your cancer was 6 years ago.

Please let us know how your doing with your recovery. Best wishes to you with everything!!!
Posted By: Richard T. Re: Mandible reconstruction by Dr. Marx? - 03-23-2012 04:54 PM
Christine;

My old cancer was SCC. My new one, for which I had the mandibulectomy, was radiation-induced osteosarcoma which is sensitive to chemo, namely, the PAM (cisPlatin, Adriomycin, Methotrexate) protocol is the gold standard and what I am currently going through.

I will keep you (and everyone else) up to date as things progress. As far as I know, Dr. Marx is the only guy doing this.
Posted By: ChristineB Re: Mandible reconstruction by Dr. Marx? - 03-23-2012 07:34 PM
Richard, I didnt know you had a recurrence. Thats why I was concerned about why you were doing chemo. Thanks for clarifying things.

Wishing you continued good health!
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