Hi, I am so sorry your brother has to go thru this. I had the trach for the entire hospital stay (11 days) but they took it out before I left, didn't have to deal with it thru radiation. I am sorry I cannot help you with this. God Bless you and your brother, Carol

Diagnosed May 2002 with Stage IV tongue cancer, two lymph nodes positive. Surgery to remove 1/2 tongue, neck dissection, 35 radiation treatments. 11/2007, diagnosed with cancer of soft palate, surgery 12/14/07, jaw split. 3/24/10, cancer on tongue behind flap, need petscan, surgery scheduled 4/16/10
---update passed away 8-27-11---