[quote]Both oncologist and surgeon did not want to proceed with the surgery. What factors could have triggered that decision?[/quote]

Hi Ina,

so sorry to hear of the troubles with Joyce. It must be so difficult trying to help from thousands of miles away in addition to trying to navigate a different health care system

To answer your question above: It is likely that the oncologist and surgeon think that the risks of surgery are higher than the potential benefits with Joyce's other medical issues (kidney function and nutrition/weight). Maybe once chemorads are completed and successful, and she regains some health (weight and kidney function) they may consider surgery if they think it necessary??

I personally would not be worried too much about lack of surgery - chemorads might well do everything that can be done.


Karen
Love of Life to Alex T4N2M0 SCC Tonsil, BOT, R lymph nodes
Dx March 2010 51yrs. Unresectable. HPV+ve
Tx Chemo x 3+1 cycles(cisplatin,docetaxel,5FU)- complete May 31
Chemoradiation (IMRTx35 + weekly cisplatin)
Finish Aug 27
Return to work 2 years on
3 years out Aug 27 2013 NED smile
Still underweight