I can't discuss the surgery as my cancer didn't require any and I'm not her age but if I were you I would get another opinion from a comprehensive cancer center near you just to see what options and recommendations they give. Not sure I understand why the ENT who is recommending the surgery (in hopes of removing the cancer) says this procedure won't extend her life? Also you say you have her POA (limited to her financial world) but what about a Health Care Surrogate appointing you as her decision maker for medical purposes.

Tough decisions ahead for sure.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.