Kerry-
Gil had a modified barium swallow x-ray that showed the sticture. Then the gastroenterologist surgeon did a post upper endoscopy that failed.( couldn't find an opening. This past Friday the ENT sugeon did a largnect?/ which would have inserted a ballon. This failed also. I'm sorry about the spelling.

Nellie-
We live in Gilbertsville about 90 minutes from Ithaca and about 50 minutes from Binghamton. I think I read that you were going to Dana-Farber in Boston? Why there instead of Sloan -Kettering?I don't know if this is a cancer hospital issue or an ENT issue. The ENT said that there is surgery available but we should wait 2 or 3 years to allow him to recover/heal and also to be sure the cancer doesn't reoccur. I know the statistics say there is a 70% risk but I'm concerned about his quality of life. Also this ENT is saying (see above) but I'm convinced going somewhere they treat many would be better. What kind of surgery are you having?. Is there any way I can communicate with these other folks?I was hoping to hear from you but had to idea how to contact you.

Thank you for writing.
Kerry -
Be proactive if they find a sricture. I do believe most are able to be dialiated and even though it may take more then one time they are successful. I would also get referred to a speech therapist. Even without scar tissue there are many things the therapist can do to help our loved ones swallow without pain and again sooner seemes to be the key word here. My daughter is a physical therapist and when I said Gil's jaw was bothering him ,she had me get a referral and was horriifed that one wasn't a part of his pre treatment plan to let us know what to watch for.