I know that we can't diagnose each other's carcinomas here, nor can we second-guess the treatment modalities recommended by our various physicians. I asked at the time of my surgery if I shouldn't consider having follow-up treatments after my surgery, and I was told that in the surgeon's opinion, I had nothing to treat. I had clear margins, negative nodes, and a well-differentiated SCC. Perhaps it was the latter that enabled my dr. to make the decision that radiation at this time was not recommended. I know that most of these treatments are dictated by various protocols. I did not have a consultation with a radiation oncologist. I have a local friend in the field. I think that I will ask him to review my records and render an opinion. I'll report back. I am thankful that I didn't have to endure the radiation, but not at the expense of this anxiety over my future.


Colleen--T-2N0M0 SCC dx'd 12/28/05...Hemi-maxillectomy, partial palatectomy, neck dissection 1/4/06....clear margins, neg. nodes....no radiation, no chemo....Cancer-free at 4 years!