Hi Christine;

Yes, I am a survivor of cancer of the head/neck of unknown primary site. I received radiation (33) and cisplatin (4) in 2006. Had extraction of two molars last year followed by 30 HBO dives. Now have recurrence of ORN and am facing mandibulectomy. Specifically, I was wondering what the future holds for me. How long will I be off work? I am a nurse and have to be able to communicate verbally for my job. Also, I have specific questions about the reconstruction using rhBMP-2 instead of a free bone flap. I will be making trips form Illinois to Miami for this surgery and am not looking forward to flying with a bunch of hardware sticking out of my face.

I am very happy to have found this resource.

Rich

Last edited by Richard T.; 11-11-2011 08:02 AM.
2006 SCC T0 N1 M0; 2006 EBRT x 33, chemo x 3; 2010 Extraction 2 molars; 2010 HBOx30; 2011 Dx osteosarcoma of mandible; 12/20/11 mandibulectomy with temp. titanium plate; 1/31/2012 chemo x 4; 9/19/2012 Reconstruction of mandible with graft from hip and bone morphogenic protein