Hi guys,

My husband went into meet with the surgeon again today and to get the face-to face pathology report feedback.
Radiation is definitely being recommended because of Perineural Invasion and the Island Invasion style of the tumor.

I was scared to death in the appt. He said that after radiation there is a low chance of reoccurrence- 10-15%, but that another aggressive surgery will most certainly cause severe functional issues. (would more than likely need to remove half of my tongue and I could lose my jawbone.) However- assuming that they got all of the cancer out and I have a successful round of radiation- this will hopefully not be something I ever need to deal with again. The odds will be in my favor!!

A couple of questions for those of you who have been through this all.
1- This doctor is not big on scans- should I demand a scan? He says that the human eye and touch are the best indicators.
2- Is it normal that the doctor had not spoken with the pathologist in advance of our meeting with him? He was going to re-verify a few things with her and discuss. But it seemed obvious that he had not yet spoken to her. This may be standard- I don't know.
3-Should I seek a second opinion at this point? Is it a futile exercise at this point? Should I just go ahead with the radiation?

I just want this to be over and done with- I want to be ensured that I am giving myself the best possibility of long-term survival as we all do.

My husband is keen to get a second opinion before we meet with the RO here in NYC on the 14th.

Also- any opinions on where to go for a second opinion? Is MA the very best? Any opinions would be much appreciated - I guess through PM.

Thank you so much. In case you can't hear it coming through this email- my mind is racing and I am nervous.

Thank you so much.

Sally