Free Flap Surgery of the Tongue

Hi All

My wonderful Dad age now 71, was diagnosed with throat cancer 10 yrs ago - he had a 6 hr Op and extensive RT, recovered, and 10 yrs later he was diagnosed with Cancer of the tongue. He had 3 small Ops, one at one hospital, next 2 at a different hospital ( all in the last few months)  but all unortunately failed. He then under duress endured a 9 hr Op on 27/07 to have free flap surgery, the tongue reconstructed with skin from his thigh. He spent 4 days in ICU, had a trachaeostomy , and was moved to the ward on day 5. His face was (& still is) extremely swollen & when Trachea was removed last Tues he couldn't swallow, move his neck or talk. Last Saturday 7/08 he had a severe hemorrhage from the neck & was back in ICU for another 3 days -  he was critical but thankfully pulled through and is now back in the ward. He had to have a blood transfusion yesterday due to loss of blood and very low red blood cell count, still has the Trachea in - they tried to remove it yesterday morning but he had a panic attack, was struggling to breathe, so they re-inserted it.

I visit him along with his partner every other day, he is so depressed, feels like giving up, even though he has been told that the cancer has been eradicated. He is so frail & scared, still obviously nil by mouth so has a feeding tube & is petrified of not being able to swallow or talk. It breaks my heart every time i see him like this as i am completely useless & cannot fix things. Has anyone else has his Op or can shed any light as to recovery process? I have obviously googled loads but would be good to hear from anyone who has been through the same.

Desperately heartbroken daughter, Julie 

  • Hello Julie

    I'm so sorry to hear about all that your Dad has been through. it's not surprising that he's struggling. It sounds as if it's been a real ordeal for him. 

    I've had a look through the forum and I'd suggest having a look at this thread and this thread where a number of members, including [@SMSM91]‍  have mentioned having a glossectomy and free flap reconstruction. It may be that if you post on those threads you'll get a response from others who have experience with this surgery. 

    You may also want to have a look at this post by [@auldgraham]‍ who mentions having had a hemiglossectomy a few years ago. 

    You're also most welcome to give our team of nurses a call to chat things through with them. It may be that they are able to give you some advice and information to help support your Dad through this difficult time. If you'd like to speak with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I do hope that things improve for your Dad soon Julie. Keep in touch and let us know how you're all getting on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator