Hi Minnie and Miss Vicki,

A few months ago I was curious too about minnie's jaw work. My docs were looking at a possible bone graft to my jaw (mandible). Fortunately, I have healed a great deal since September and am no longer facing possible jaw surgery.

I don't know if my experience can help with your questions Miss Vicki. I had 1/2 my tongue removed (scc on lateral tongue), my jaw was split during surgery and the bone has not fused together yet. I had some trouble with infection where the jaw was split, and my jaw/chin line on the side where the neck dissection was often puffy or red. My husband commented on how it changed daily. It usually is evening when I notice the aches and speech difficulties.

This fall I underwent hyperbariac oxygen treatment (HBO) and starting taking trental and vitamin E and I am doing so much better now. Before I would not have said I was in pain, but once it went away I realized how much "discomfort" there constantly was to my jaw area!

Let me know Miss Vicki what some of your concerns are (food? speech? upcoming surgeries or treatment, pain? etc.). I also have speech and eating issues. Somes days I am frustrated by them, on others I am thankful to be alive and to still be able to eat and talk, even if its difficult.

It sounds like you've gone through a lot, so I may not have much to add but, if I can help....
michelle