Congratulations on 12 years! To my understanding, wound healing can be more difficult or delayed.in a radiated area due to reduced blood flow, reduced oxygen, necrosis and fibrosis. Other factors may compound matters like poor diet, lack of protein, smoking, alcohol, diabetes, and other lowered immune system disorders. Some need to see a wound care specialist, and may need HBOT, Hyberbaric Oxygen Therapy. I had 30 HBO for a tooth infection that was not healing properly, 20 before, and 10 post extraction. Post neck dissection, stitches are left in longer for healing, if you had prior radiation.

Good luck with everything, and hope the tongue finally heals properly.


10/09 T1N2bM0 Tonsil
11/09 Taxo Cisp 5-FU, 6 Months Hosp
01/11 35 IMRT 70Gy 7 Wks
06/11 30 HBO
08/11 RND PNI
06/12 SND PNI LVI
08/12 RND Pec Flap IORT 12 Gy
10/12 25 IMRT 50Gy 6 Wks Taxo Erbitux
10/13 SND
10/13 TBO/Angiograph
10/13 RND Carotid Remove IORT 10Gy PNI
12/13 25 Protons 50Gy 6 Wks Carbo
11/14 All Teeth Extract 30 HBO
03/15 Sequestromy Buccal Flap ORN
09/16 Mandibulectomy Fib Flap Sternotomy
04/17 Regraft hypergranulation Donor Site
06/17 Heart Attack Stent
02/19 Finally Cancer Free Took 10 yrs