I've been seeing an ENT at Cedars and one at UCLA for the last 4 years having leukoplakia. It turned to SCC T1 or T2 a month ago. The ENT at Cedars recommended a simple (if it can be simple) removal of the cancer as an outpatient.

Saw the cancer surgeons at UCLA two weeks ago, who explained why I should get a hemiglossectomy with forearm flap tongue reconstruction plus neck node removal. It is all to minimize the possibility of reoccurance due to residual cells being left behind. He will insert a trac and a peg during surgery for my own comfort. The trac comes out when I leave in 8-10 days. The peg stays a month. I also saw the radiation oncologist who concurred surgery was better so they can save radiology for a potential reoccurance. Surgery is scheduled for 3/8.
This site is excellent. Wonder if any of you had the flap or have some tips for me. I'm a 58yo male in otherwise good health.

Regards,
Howard