Hi, my dad just had lower jaw, 2/3 tounge, tumror at base of tounge removed. He was scheduled for rad treatments and that has been post-poned because some stitches came out (twice) and plate is showing. They don't want to do rad because they say this needs to fully heal. We understand that, but what if this dosen't heal? One doc says to do rad around the plate( at base of tounge is where he needs it), but rad doc says no, and to start chemo. The overseeing doc tells doc who did surgery to leave plate in and wait. Wait for what?!! We need to get on with treatments. They had mentioned hyperbaric chamber for healing- and I thought great- lets do this to help heal plate, then get on to rad and chemo. We are still waiting. We can't talk to doctor until Sept. 6. We were there a week ago.
What if the plate dosen't take and comes out? This will let us start rad and chemo- but my dads chin will sink in and will he be able to talk? His tounge is already gone so its a little difficult understanding him. He is stressed that all was well after surgery, then it was like sliding backwards down a hole. What a waiting game this is. A real scary one. Has anyone been through this or know something that we don't we are on a few weeks into cancer and all it entails.

Karen-for what is it worth--?? John's Oncologist said "Absolutely No Hyperberic Oxy. if the cancer is still present because the cancer cells will go crazy" I wish you could get all the Docs in the same room and talk to them . Amy

I have to agree with Amy. I have also read that HBO can fuel an existing tumor. I believe that Brian has some more up to date information on this which he will probably share.

Here's a link to an abstract of an article that addresses the issue of hyperbaric treatment and tumor growth. It is from PubMed, the government service of the National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...amp;list_uids=12841604&dopt=Citation

The bottom line, to quote from this article, published in 2003:

"In conclusion, the published literature on tumor angiogenesis mechanisms and other possible mechanisms of cancer causation or accelerated growth provides little basis for HBO2 to enhance malignant growth or metastases. A history of malignancy should not be considered a contraindication for HBO2 therapy."

Karen, your post makes me wonder if your dad is being treated at a comprehensive cancer center where a team-based approach is standard procedure, and all of the doctors are in fact in the same room to decide upon treatment protocols.
I was told by my rad oncologist that radiation should start within 6 weeks of the surgery. This is to give the surgery a chance to heal before starting the radiation. Hopefully, this will give you some time to consider the best course of action. Best, Sheldon

Ok, this helps a lot. I get more information from you guys than anyone else. I will be going to my dads next week to meet doctors and to see what the deal is, so I'll be more prepared. Thanks!