Informed yesterday that the large tumour removed from under my chin was 1mm from my voice box. This complicates my radiotherapy earmarked for mid-January onwards, so I'm having to return for another assessment early in the New Year whilst my new Oncologist considers the options.
In Autumn 2011, had 60 Grays radiation on the left side, and have been told that this dosage will probably be the same again on my right side. 2 Grays a day for 6 weeks with about an inch or so crossover point in the middle. This will also be IMRT,as opposed to conventional RT which I had last time.
Told the big risks re. the crossover area will be necrosis, carotid artery blow out, damage to spine and/or voice box and these are estimated at 10%. Also, informed that the large skin flap inserted under my chin should not be any more susceptible to radiotherapy than any other tissue never exposed before. However, scar lines around this flap adjoining previously treated skin will be more at risk.
When pressed , and I was the one looking for the %s, told that the success benefit compared to no treatment was probably 40 to 50%.
Knowing what I went through last time is not particularly reassuring - but I don't have much option.