I am struggling to understand how the RO determines the exact amount of radiation that each individual patient receives. My father currently has 14 more treatments to go and the RO told us today he is reducing the amount that he is giving to the non cancer side of his neck and the top of his lung area. We were told that he would receive a total of 66 cGy at 1.8 per day. I am just scared and worried is that enough and should he reduce the other areas. He has had 22 treatments so far. His neck and checks and upper chest are very badly burned at this point. The sides of his neck have certain cracks and were bleeding slightly yesterday. I don't want him to have more than he needs but I want it to be enough. Any insight anyone could provide about their own experience on others would be greatly appreciated.


Caregiver to Father:Stage III unknown primary; modified left side neck dissection 2/2006; 8 wk trmts of Erbitux 3/2006 with-37 radition treatments; 11.2010; biopsy of base of tongue results questionable. 9.2013 tumor on left side of tongue; squamous cell cancer. 10.2.2013 Hemiglossectomy(1/2 tongue removed) with reconstruct tongue using left thigh tissue;surgery included IORT.
25 additional IMRT radiation trtmts & 5 wks/chemo. Carbo & Taxol combo.NPO;100% PEG depend;aspiration pneumonia 3/2014