 Patient Advocate (1000+ posts)
Joined: Mar 2003 Posts: 1,384 Likes: 1 | Minor correction: ORN is not typical damage and is not normally a side effect of radiation. It is a potential problem due to decreased blood circulation in the bone due to radiation. Major dental work like extractions can have several side effects which are minimized with HBO "dives". Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy works by temporarily causing an increase (through vascular improvements) in blood flow to radiated tissues.
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.
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