Thanks, Danny, Linda, and Jim. Sounds like MDACC is somewhat typical of a large institution insofar as lack of communication. I'll keep that in mind, and my husband has no problem being a "squeaky wheel" even if I am not able. Linda, my husband will be coming with me, but I will definitely get in touch if I have more questions. Jim, I am so sorry about your experience, but I appreciate your sharing it and I agree, I sure don't want to take a chance on a total glossectomy.

Thanks,
Joy

8/2006: SCC, right lateral tongue, well differentiated, superficially invasive. 10/2009: recurrence, rt lateral tongue, surgery, rt mod neck dissection. 2/2010: metastasized node under left mandible. 3/2010: Induction chemo 3 rounds, Cisplatin, Tax, 5-FU. Surg and rad to follow.