Has anyone had experience with osteonecrosis of the hyoid bone?

Posted by marge62 @marge62, 2 days ago

Has anyone else had osteonecrosis of the hyoid bone?
Husband has had two different radiation treatments of the throat 14 years apart and now has osteonecrosis of the hyoid bone.
Told it was rare but asking anyway.

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William Olsen, Volunteer Mentor | @hrhwilliam | 1 day ago

Hi @marge62. Excellent question. I am curious if the hyoid can be replaced with an artificial one. The hyoid as I understand is the only bone not connected to any other bone in the body.
I will try to remember to ask about this on my next visit to Mayo. In the meantime hopefully someone here has an answer.
Radiation twice? That takes courage. Hugs to both of you.

marge62 | @marge62 | 1 day ago

Thank you. Yes. He has been through it and I marvel at his strength. Osteonecrosis of the hyoid bone happens due (of course) to the radiation. The danger is it can push on the carotid arteries and that is lethal. He just had his external carotid artery coiled to prevent a rupture.
Thanks for the hugs. Anyone who has gone through this cancer and treatment is courageous.
It is a beast.