Hi, all. My husband had tonsil cancer 11 yrs ago w/surgery & radiation. He now needs a jaw replacement. Can barely eat and is in constant pain, but surgery should take place in next few weeks. Has anyone had this surgery and can tell us what to expect. Will he be able to open his jaw after healing and be able to chew again? Disfigurement? Any info will be appreciated. Thank you in advance.

There are a few people here who've had this surgery - they'll be along soon I'm sure! I think if it goes well he should have functionality but I do know some people reject or have chronic infections with the titanium they use - if it's a donor bone (his one - say leg bone?) I think it's better - less chance of rejection? Someone here will correct me if I'm wrong. I do know recently someone had it and said the were fine and you couldn't tell. So I think there are a lot of factors - congrats on your husband being a surcpvivor! And welcome! wish I could help more - good luck with the surgery!

Welcome, Barb & Joe. Sorry I can't offer info on this surgery, I'm sure plenty ofother will, but wishing all the best possible outcome.

Welcome to OCF Barb and Joe! I have had a mandibulectomy (lower jaw removed). Its a long, involved surgery which takes a while to recover from. Everyone responds differently to procedures and medications so what I went thru could be significantly different that what Joe could encounter.

From what I have seen here with many people who have had this surgery, the people who use their own leg bones usually fair better. I have also heard that some docs will use cadaver bones to replace the jaw bone as well. This has a high success rate too. I was given a titanium jaw bone which was specially made for my specifications. My body rejected it and the titanium had to be removed and the surgery redone. This resulted in my becoming disfigured. Im much better now after a couple of reconstructive surgeries.

After this type of operation, there will be significant swelling which will take a full year to go down. The first 2 months the swelling was the worst. Joe will get a feeding tube and a trach. Ask for a possey muir valve trach so he can talk easier. I didnt know who to request to give me that type of trach so I told every single doctor and nurse I saw prior to the operation. When I was recovering, people would be amazed that I could speak clearly. Even the doctors and nurses were surprised at how clear my speech was. My former occupation involved talking all day with perfect enunciation so that has helped me alot.

I would suggest that Joe eats everything he possibly can before the surgery. Being strong and healthy going into this is a wise move. If he gains a couple pounds thats ok as he probably will lose some during the hospital stay. I would also recommend that Joe gets all his personal business situated with an expectation of not being available to do things for about 3 or 4 months. I know that sounds like a very long time, but its best to prepare for the worst and be happy when things turn out to be much easier than expected.

Hope this helps you. Best of luck with this!!! If you have other questions, please feel free to ask.