Proton versus Photon for HPV tonsil cancer

Posted by toleolu @toleolu, Mar 17 1:25pm

I have stage 2 HPV related cancer in my left tonsil that has spread to the lymph node. PET scan shows no other cancer.

I'm scheduled to begin 7 weeks of Photon radiation and chemo next week. I live in Hawaii and none of the hospitals here have Proton Therapy. I am considering going to the mainland for Proton therapy if the benefits of Proton versus Photon justifies the expense. Anyone have any experience with real world side effects and quality of life issues between the two?

For starters, they want to pull 3 teeth for the Photon therapy, did anyone have teeth pulled for Proton therapy?

Thanks

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bluechip33 | @bluechip33 | 6 days ago

In reply to @toleolu "@bluechip33 Hey Blue, how ya doin?? I commented on your post a while back. Hope all..." + (show)

@toleolu
Ps- next weeks the hill you have to climb will get steeper, just keep going! Make sure they have you using “magic mouthwash “ it has lidocaine, mylanta and something else. It’s amazing and will help! Drink 3-4 high calorie boost daily. Get those down and usually feeding tube not needed. Daily neck stretches and “forever” extra care for your teeth. Gets to be a little bit of a full time job but one you can handle and benefits are great!

bf085253 | @bf085253 | 5 days ago

My husband had throat cancer; we live in Hawaii and opted to go to Seattle to be treated Fred Hutch Proton Therapy Center. They offer housing at a reasonable rate and shuttle service. We opted to stay at a Residence Inn in Seattle Northgate, about a mile from the treatment center. They offer a reduced rate for Fred Hutch patients.
My husband had 35 radiation treatments (5 days a week) and chemo once a week. We hope this helps you decide.
He finished treatments early October 2025 and scans are showing he is clear.