There have been many members who have gotten feeding tubes half way thru or even at the very end of their treatments. Its a good tool to help keep him hydrated and with enough calories. He still needs to continue to take sips of water several times per day even if it hurts. Believe it or not, a person can easily lose their ability to swallow after just a couple days of not doing it. This can be a huge problem down the road so please tell him he MUST swallow water every single day.

Best wishes with the surgery. He may be sore for a couple days after getting the tube. Ask if he can have a visiting nurse to help him learn to use the tube and ask for a pump so he can do feedings while watching tv or even while sleeping.

Good luck!!!


Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile