I believe what was meant was the decision to radiate was not known before surgery not that the radiation itself was going to happen before surgery.

Flame throwing indeed! I have the asbestos suit to show for it. (never mind the mesothelioma jokes)

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.