Gary,

I ran across a reference in a page from some searching I did last night. The regular (not IMPT) PRoton beam is so narrow that XRT is done together because it gets the larger field the PBT misses. It was in a page provided by LLUMC. PBT-very good at specific targets not so good at wide field. XRT-good for wide field not so good for specific targets.

As for the Proton VS Photon yes there is a big difference. I realized that my three year old memory was cloudy. All I know is that they changed the treatment in some way and I have not gotten the info on what that was. It possibly was Gamma or electron beam.

Bottom line XRT has been around for a long time (like 50-60 years)with a pretty good reputation for improving long term survival. Also has some sucky side effects. IMRT still pretty new with excellent near term results. IMPT still cutting edge.

Erik,
If you are hearing that you could expect the same longterm results without surgery then I would have to say that is worth strong consideration. If loosing salivia is the price for not having the surgery then it might be a fair trade.

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.