Welcome to OCF! You have found a great source for info and support.

Im sorry you are experiencing so many after effects. You have been thru alot.

Its hard to answer the questions you have asked. We are not medical professionals but fellow oral cancer survivors and their caregivers. Every case is a little different so trying to determine what the future holds for you isnt anything we could guess. As far as a recurrence goes, hopefully your medical team was able to successfully remove all the cancer with wide clean margins. Will you be having radiation?

Reduced mouth (trismus) opening could be from the surgery or lack of movement. There could be some improvement with a physical therapist or using the therabyte device. Since you didnt mention doing radiation, Im hoping your range of motion could be extended with some PT and hard work. It could be a long road to regain what you lost. Again, I dont have a medical background or know your case enough to really be certain if those things are possible. I suggest checking with your doc about it.

You might benefit from a prescription medicine called Neurontin, its to help ease your nerve pain. Nobody should have to be in pain, please check in with your doc for help. Recovery can be a very long road with ups and downs. It could take a full year for your body to completely adapt to the changes. Hopefully you will be able to bounce back quickly. Using high protein whey powder mixed into your drinks could help. Ask your doc if its ok to use. Having a diet that is higher in protein can help to speed your healing.

There are a few members who have the medical device you mentioned. Im sure others who use the same medical device will be along to share some of their experiences with you.

Best wishes with your continued recovery!


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