We heard from MD Anderson today. The surgeon proposed a less invasive surgery to attempt to remove the entire tumor. It does not involve a trash tube or cutting through the jaw. The only question is whether he will truly be able to remove the entire tumor: the tumor boundaries are not at all clear, and the MRI is only so accurate.
My husband is going ahead with the surgery. We are waiting to hear a date: could be as soon as this week.
Keep your fingers crossed that this surgery is successful. The next step after this is the total glossectomy. I'll check back in when I know more.
Thanks again to everyone for the support and the information.