My mom is 7 years s/p RAD for R mandibular and L trigonal CA. She is now in the hospital after back surgery July 08 that has not healed. She has been diagnosed with protein malnutrition, and the first modified barium swallow study she ever had the other day after 7 years- shows massive swallowing issues. She has had a MRSA post op infection that was treated and cleared up, but the spinal wound required 2 clean outs in the OR and have not healed at the spine level, just the skin over the operative site. She now has an epidural abcess in her cervial spine near the area she had radiation damage. The docs are possibly recommending a feeding tube at this point. Can anyone give me insight into the placement and long term use of feeding tubes this far out? Most of what I have read is people gettinf feeding tubes during treatments. She is reluctant- she had one previously and it was a bad experience (6 ensures a day should do it- what kind of advice is that? I think we can do more than pour ensure through it?). I am trying to find out info about adding protein powder and tofu to soups etc that she can eat to impeove her ability to heal. I am also wondering if pureed food and pills (thru mortal and pestle, ground up) can be put through the tube? She has trouble swallowing pills as well. Any guidance or advice is great. I think if she can improve her nutrition she may come away with this with her life. If not I am afraid her time is hsorter rather than longer.