Dueling Doctors

Khanghi
Khanghi Member Posts: 5
edited March 2014 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
Here's one for you! This morning I had a radiology test on my ability (or inability) to swallow after 8 weeks since the end of my radiation. As it turns out, the upper sphincter in my esophogus is closed off and won't allow anything to pass. I was given one teaspoon of berium and told they "didn't need to see any more". It was suggested the surgeon who performed my neck disection go in and dialate the sphincter, supplemented with an electrical stimulation treatment. I told my radiation oncologist about it and was told "Oh no...it's too early to think about that, yet".

Anybody out there had this proceedure? How long was it after you finished your radiation? How well did it work? Was it a permanent fix or did you have to have it done again?

I'M READY TO EAT OR I'M AFFRAID I'M GONNA END UP IN A BELL TOWER SOMEWHERE!

Comments

  • AuthorUnknown
    AuthorUnknown Member Posts: 1,537 Member
    #2
    Hello,

    You may want to consider contacting the American Cancer Society's National Cancer Information Center. Cancer Information Specialists can assist you with your questions and are available 24 hours a day at 1-800-227-2345. Alternatively you can click on the "Contact ACS" link at the top of the page.

    Take care and be well (and hope you are eating soon!),

    Dana
    CSN Dana
  • rmprst
    rmprst Member Posts: 1
    #3
    Hey there- so sorry about the eating difficulty. My father also had this problem after radiation and did have several dialations.After each one his throat was sore for a day or two, but he was able to get things down. He had to go back for several more, but I'm ssure that would vary from person to person. He had extensive scarring from radiation and radiation recall during chemo.
    If you do it, I wish you luck, no pain, and your favorite meal very soon! rmprst

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