The role of the soft palate dose regarding normal tissue toxicities in older adults with head and neck cancer undergoing definitive radiotherapy.

PURPOSE: The number of older adults with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is continuously increasing. Older HNSCC patients may be more vulnerable to radiotherapy-related toxicities, so that extrapolation of available normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) models to this population may not be appropriate. Hence, we aimed to investigate the correlation between organ at risk (OAR) doses and chronic toxicities in older patients with HNSCC undergoing definitive radiotherapy. METHODS: Patients treated with definitive radiotherapy, either alone or with concomitant systemic treatment, between 2009 and 2019 in a large tertiary cancer center were eligible for this analysis. OARs were contoured based on international consensus guidelines, and EQD2 doses using α/ß values of 3 Gy for late effects were calculated based on the radiation treatment plans. Treatment-related toxicities were graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Logistic regression analyses were carried out, and NTCP models were developed and internally validated using the bootstrapping method. RESULTS: A total of 180 patients with a median age of 73 years fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Seventy-three patients developed chronic moderate xerostomia (grade 2), 34 moderate dysgeusia (grade 2), and 59 moderate-to-severe (grade 2-3) dysphagia after definitive radiotherapy. The soft palate dose was significantly associated with all analyzed toxicities (xerostomia: OR = 1.028, dysgeusia: OR = 1.022, dysphagia: OR = 1.027) in the multivariable regression. The superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle was also significantly related to chronic dysphagia (OR = 1.030). Consecutively developed and internally validated NTCP models were predictive for the analyzed toxicities (optimism-corrected AUCs after bootstrapping: AUCxerostomia=0.64, AUCdysgeusia=0.60, AUCdysphagia=0.64). CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the dose to the soft palate is associated with chronic moderate xerostomia, moderate dysgeusia and moderate-to-severe dysphagia in older HNSCC patients undergoing definitive radiotherapy. If validated in external studies, efforts should be undertaken to reduce the soft palate dose in these patients.

Histopathological and biomechanical changes in soft palate in response to non-ablative 9.3-µm CO2 laser irradiation: an in vivo study.

The purpose of this study was to investigate in vivo the biomechanical and morphological changes in soft palates of Wistar rats from non-ablative irradiation with a 9.3-µm CO2 laser. A blinded, randomized, controlled study was designed with 45 Wistar rats categorized into treated and control sets. The treated set was exposed to 9.3-µm CO2 laser irradiation at an average power of 1.0 W and a single pulse fluence of 0.16 J/cm2 scanned using an automated system at a repetition rate of 315 Hz in a patterned area covering 0.4 cm2 in 6 s. The tissue of each animal was excised and divided into two halves. One-half was sectioned for histopathology, and the other half was used to measure tissue stiffness, which was reported as the effective Young's modulus. Measurements for both sets were taken at three time points: days 1, 21, and 35. There were no significant adverse events or changes in the behavior of the rats over the duration of the study. The treated set exhibited an order of magnitude increase in stiffness relative to the controls, which was maintained over the three time points. Histopathology showed a moderate contraction/disruption of the lamina propria collagen observed at day 1 and collagen accumulation observed at days 21 and 35 in the tissue remodeling phase. Non-ablative 9.3-µm CO2 laser irradiation can safely increase oral mucosal stiffness and can be used as an effective treatment to reduce tissue vibrations that are associated with snoring.

Photobiomodulation by low-level laser therapy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: Study protocol clinical trial (SPIRIT compliant).

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) increases morbidity and mortality and it is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The gold standard treatment for OSA is positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP). However, it is an expensive treatment and several patients do not adapt to CPAP. GOAL: The researchers will verify the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on OSA, when applied to the soft palate and on the tongue base. METHODS: The researchers will select individuals of both sexes aged 30 to 60 years old who are sedentary and that present a high risk of OSA by the Berlin questionnaire. The evaluations pre and post interventions will be polysomnography; anthropometric and body composition measurements (Bioimpedance); metabolic syndrome risk factors (International Diabetes Federation); physical capacity (VO2 peak at the cardiopulmonary exercise test, CPET); endothelial function (flow-mediated dilatation, FMD); autonomic control (heart rate variability and sympathovagal balance). Those diagnosed with moderate and severe OSA (apnea/hypopnea index, AHI ≥15 events/h) will be invited to participate in the study and they will be randomized into 2 groups: LLLT treatment or placebo (C). The LLLT group will receive applications at 8 points on the soft palate and on the base of the tongue for 8 seconds for each point. The applications of LLLT will occur twice a week, with a minimum interval of 2 days between the applications for 2 months, when using a Therapy Plus NS 13678 Laser. The C group will have similar applications, but with the device turned off. EXPECTED RESULTS: In the individuals with OSA, photobiomodulation through LLLT will decrease the AHI. Additionally, when LLLT is applied in the oral cavity, a highly vascularized region, this may cause improvements in the vascular function and in the autonomic and hemodynamic control. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Nove de Julho University, São Paulo, Brazil, on the date of March 11, 2019 (CAAE: 06025618.2.0000.5511 - Acceptance Number: 3.191.077). This trial has been registered with the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (REBEC TRIAL RBR-42v548). This study is not yet recruiting. Issue date: November 4, 2019.

Osteoradionecrosis Following Carbon Ion Radiotherapy: Case History Report of a Soft Palate Defect.

Carbon ion radiotherapy, a form of charged particle radiotherapy that has been used to treat various inoperable and radio-resistant tumors, has been associated with less severe late effects than conventional radiotherapy. A 63-year-old woman with a soft palate defect received carbon ion radiotherapy (total dose: 64 Gray equivalents). Several late effects were observed, and osteoradionecrosis was observed not only on the tumor side but also on the other side and gradually expanded during maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation. While the definitive prosthesis improved her speech and eating ability, careful adjustments and close follow-up should continue with respect to postradiation effects.

Histological Effects of Er:YAG Laser Irradiation with Snoring Handpiece in the Rat Soft Palate.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of laser irradiation with a novel snoring handpiece on the histological structures of the soft palate in a rat model. BACKGROUND: Snoring is a common problem and studies have shown that 20-50% of the population is affected. An apnea-hypopnea index of <5/h without daytime somnolence is documented as simple snoring. No snoring treatment should ever be attempted until a sleep study has been completed to rule out sleep apnea. METHODS: Twenty adult Wistar rats, weighing 200-250 g, were used in this study. Rats were randomized into two groups: experimental group (n = 10) and control group (n = 10). Laser energy was delivered in a horizontal direction to the surface of the soft palate of each rat in the experimental group for 2 min with an Er:YAG laser (LightWalker AT; Fotona) with snoring handpiece (PS04) in a noncontact mode (1.15 W, 2 Hz, 1.5 J/cm(2)). The animals were sacrificed after 24 h, 1 week, 3 weeks, or 5 weeks. The soft palate of each rat was removed by excisional biopsy. The specimens underwent histological examination. Contractions and fibrosis were reported as grading from 1+ to 3+, while edema and hyperemia were evaluated according to the absence (0) or presence (1) of any changes. Statistical analysis was done with the Mann-Whitney U and Spearman's rho tests. RESULT: A noticeable contraction of the soft palate occurred immediately after laser application. Inflammatory changes were observed histologically at 3 weeks postoperatively. Keratinization appeared after the procedure in both groups and decreased gradually. Statistically, there was a strong correlation among inflammation and time and also keratinization and time (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The present study indicates that Er:YAG laser irradiation with snoring handpiece (PS04) causes acute shrinkage of the mucosa. This contraction decreases gradually but is still present at the end of fifth week.

Early Arising Sarcoma After Adjuvant Radiotherapy for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Radiation-induced sarcoma of the head and neck (RISHN) is a rare and long-term complication of radiation therapy (RT). This report describes a case of RISHN characterized by early and insidious onset. An 80-year-old man was surgically treated for advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma of the left retromolar trigone (pT4aN0). Sixteen months after completion of adjuvant RT, an exophytic sessile lesion arose in the left border of the soft palate. Histologic assessment showed a malignant neoplasm with spindle-shaped cells and areas of bone matrix without perivascular or perineural invasion; such features in addition to immunohistochemical assessment (negative for pan-cytokeratin; positive for vimentin; negative for epithelial membrane antigen; negative for p63; Ki-67, 30%) are consistent with poorly differentiated sarcoma (cT1aN0M0). Fifteen months after a wide surgical resection, the patient was free of disease. RISHN is usually an aggressive neoplasm with insidious onset. Nevertheless, early diagnosis followed by complete surgical excision could make the prognosis comparable to that of spontaneous sarcoma.

Necrotizing fasciitis in oro-maxillo-facial area after radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the soft palate.

The fascia's and subcutaneous adipose tissue's impairment by mono or polymicrobial infection, which also can involve the skin and the muscles, is rarely seen in oro-maxillo-facial area. The present case report is presenting a case of necrotizing fasciitis in a patient who had a history of an invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the soft palate, with surgical treatment and with radiotherapy. He was admitted in our Clinic with malaise and subsequently developed a toxico-septic shock. Clinical symptoms, serological and bacteriological analysis and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis (NF). The patient subsequently underwent a series of surgical reconstruction and aesthetic treatments because of the complications that had arised in the meantime. Postoperative evolution was favorable towards complete closure of the defect. The prognosis of this disease is generally reserved, the favorable evolution depending on the possibility of wound sterilization and the surgery is required despite its mutilating effect.

The treatment of snoring by radiofrequency-assisted uvulopalatoplasty and results after one-session protocol: a prospective, longitudinal, non-randomized study.

Snoring is usually caused by the vibration of walls of the soft palate at the pharyngeal level. Its worldwide prevalence is estimated to range between 2 and 85% depending on age, gender or population group. The aim of this study is to determine the degree of improvement that can be subjectively evident in patients treated by snoring with radiofrequency-assisted uvulopalatoplasty based on a one-session protocol. This is a prospective, longitudinal, non-randomized study. Patients of both sexes, aged 18 years, who attended to the ENT consultation in a tertiary hospital with snoring during the period of July 2012-July 2013 were included. Age, body mass index, Epworth sleepiness scale were calculated. The volume of snoring of each subject was assessed using a visual analog scale. A total of 27 patients were included in the study; the average age of the sample was 49 years (±8.7; min 36/max 74); of these 22 (81.5%) were male and 5 (18.5%) females. The average BMI was 27.07 ± 2.5 (min 23.15/max 29.39) before the test and after 1 year was 26.75 ± 2.32 (min 23.11/max 29.56) with no statistically significant differences in BMI before and after surgery (p = 0.407). Preoperative snoring intensity was 8.10 ± 0.93 according to VAS. We found a statistically significant difference in the post-operative intensity at 3 months of 3.93 ± 0.88 (p ≤ 0.05) at 6 months of 4.41 ± 1.08 (p ≤ 0.05), and after 1 year 4.90 ± 0.77 (p ≤ 0.05). The average rate of ESS was significantly higher preoperatively than post-operative, being 8.76 ± 3.1 preoperative and 6.93 ± 1.68 post-operative (p ≤ 0.05). We conclude that the use of radiofrequency in simple snorers with an apnea/hypopnea index <15 events per hour and a BMI < 30 kg/m(2) in whom clinically proven that the source of snoring is the soft palate, can be treated by one-session protocol, being possible to obtain an improvement of snoring up to 70% of cases by a short follow-up period.

Using a reduced spot size for intensity-modulated proton therapy potentially improves salivary gland-sparing in oropharyngeal cancer.

PURPOSE: To investigate whether intensity-modulated proton therapy with a reduced spot size (rsIMPT) could further reduce the parotid and submandibular gland dose compared with previously calculated IMPT plans with a larger spot size. In addition, it was investigated whether the obtained dose reductions would theoretically translate into a reduction of normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCPs). METHODS: Ten patients with N0 oropharyngeal cancer were included in a comparative treatment planning study. Both IMPT plans delivered simultaneously 70 Gy to the boost planning target volume (PTV) and 54 Gy to the elective nodal PTV. IMPT and rsIMPT used identical three-field beam arrangements. In the IMPT plans, the parotid and submandibular salivary glands were spared as much as possible. rsIMPT plans used identical dose-volume objectives for the parotid glands as those used by the IMPT plans, whereas the objectives for the submandibular glands were tightened further. NTCPs were calculated for salivary dysfunction and xerostomia. RESULTS: Target coverage was similar for both IMPT techniques, whereas rsIMPT clearly improved target conformity. The mean doses in the parotid glands and submandibular glands were significantly lower for three-field rsIMPT (14.7 Gy and 46.9 Gy, respectively) than for three-field IMPT (16.8 Gy and 54.6 Gy, respectively). Hence, rsIMPT significantly reduced the NTCP of patient-rated xerostomia and parotid and contralateral submandibular salivary flow dysfunction (27%, 17%, and 43% respectively) compared with IMPT (39%, 20%, and 79%, respectively). In addition, mean dose values in the sublingual glands, the soft palate and oral cavity were also decreased. Obtained dose and NTCP reductions varied per patient. CONCLUSIONS: rsIMPT improved sparing of the salivary glands and reduced NTCP for xerostomia and parotid and submandibular salivary dysfunction, while maintaining similar target coverage results. It is expected that rsIMPT improves quality of life during and after radiotherapy treatment.

Delineation guidelines for organs at risk involved in radiation-induced salivary dysfunction and xerostomia.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: It is believed that minimizing inconsistencies in OAR-volume definition will help to improve adequate reporting and interpreting of radiation treatment results. The aim of this paper is to introduce computed tomography (CT)-based delineation guidelines for organs at risk (OARs) in the head and neck area, associated with radiation-induced salivary dysfunction and xerostomia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After analyses of the human anatomy of the head and neck area, computed tomography (CT)-based guidelines for delineation of the most relevant OARs were described by a panel of experts. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The provided OAR guidelines are accompanied by CT-based illustrations presenting examples of the delineated structures and their corresponding anatomic boundaries. The parts of the tongue bearing minor salivary glands could not be outlined. Difficulties and uncertainties in defining these minor salivary glands on CT remain to be resolved. Implementation of these guidelines in practice should lead to a reduction in inter- and intra-observer variability and therefore unambiguous reporting of possible dose-volume effect relationships.

Combined surgery and postoperative radiotherapy for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in Korea: analysis of 110 cases.

The treatment of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains controversial. This study reviews the authors' experience of treating OSCC, evaluates the oncologic outcome and assesses the factors affecting local/regional recurrence. A retrospective analysis of 110 consecutive OSCC patients treated primarily by surgery and/or postoperative radiotherapy was carried out. 82% of patients had advanced disease (stage III or IV). The 5-year overall survival and disease specific survival rates (DSSR) were 58% and 65%, respectively. The DSSR of the soft palate or posterior pharyngeal wall, tonsillar area, and base of tongue were 80%, 62%, and 51%, respectively (P<0.05). The 5-year DSSR according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer stages was 94% for early stage and 56% for advanced stage (P<0.05). The overall recurrence rate was 38% (42 patients). The most frequent site of recurrence was the neck (46%). Only 14% of patients with recurrences were treated successfully. Positive resection margins and the presence of pathologic lymph nodes influenced the recurrence at the primary lesion and in the neck, respectively, in a statistically significant manner. Surgery and postoperative radiotherapy provided a superior outcome in patients with advanced OSCC. A randomized study is required to assess the oncologic and functional superiority of surgery or chemoradiation.

Second primary squamous cell carcinoma arising in cutaneous flap reconstructions of two head and neck cancer patients.

Early complications of myocutaneous flap transfers following surgical eradication of head and neck tumors have been extensively described. However, knowledge concerning long-term complications of these techniques remains limited. We report the cases of two patients with a prior history of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC), who developed a second primary SCC on the cutaneous surface of their flaps, years after reconstruction. Interestingly, it seems that the well-known risk of a second primary SCC in patients with previous head and neck carcinoma also applies to foreign tissues implanted within the area at risk. Given the important expansion of these interventions, this type of complication may become more frequent in the future. Therefore, long-term follow-up of patients previously treated for HNSCC not only requires careful evaluation of the normal mucosa of the upper aero-digestive tract, but also of the cutaneous surface of the flap used for reconstruction.

[Histological and ultrastructural variations after radiofrequency for soft palate in porcines].

PURPOSE: To investigate the histological and ultrastructural variations after radiofrequency volumetric reduction of the soft palate in an animal model. METHODS: Thirteen porcines were used to evaluate the tissue response to radiofrequency for various time periods. They were divided into two groups. Group 1 was exposed to radiofrequency in the midline of the soft palate with a constant energy of 2.4 KJ. Group 2 served as a control group. The animals in group 1 were sacrificed after 1 hour, 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks and 9 weeks, respectively, and after 72 hours, 2 weeks and 4 weeks for the animals in group 2. Then the soft palates from both groups were examined for histological and ultrastructural variations. RESULTS: Interstitial edema, hemorrhage and infiltration with inflammatory cells were observed in the early acute stage after radiofrequency, and then the neovascularization of the forming scar was observed. In the end, the injured tissue was replaced by collagenous fibers. Intact vessels and nerves were observed around the lesions. CONCLUSIONS: After radiofrequency, lesion tissue is replaced by collagenous fibers, and it is focused on the lesion site. These findings may help provide a basis for technological suggestion in regard to clinical treatment.

Laser soft palate "stiffening": an alternative to uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Habitual snoring is best treated surgically, with uvulopalatophayngoplasty, but the standard "cutting" procedure poses potential morbidity. In this study, a new approach, stiffening of the soft palate with a low energy laser, was studied as a less invasive alternative. Study Design In an in vitro study, five fresh palates of canines were used to see acute thermal effect on the palatal tissue after laser treatment. The same laser irradiation was conducted in three living canines to observe a delayed response of the palate to the laser. MATERIALS AND METHODS: With the use of a non-contact 1.44 microm Nd:YAG laser at 0.1 J and 20 Hz, the mucosa on the marginal area of the soft palate was irradiated for 2-3 minutes. Following Outcome were Measured Acute shrinkage of the soft palate and thermal effect on the mucosa, and delayed stiffening and elevation of the palate after laser irradiation. RESULTS: There was immediate shrinkage of the palate of about 3.0 mm in the in vitro study. In the in vivo study, a delayed palatal stiffening with 6.0-7.0 mm elevated palatal arch was found at 5 weeks. There was no morbidity after the treatment. CONCLUSION: Laser stiffening of soft palate is simple, safe and effective for reduction of length and fluttering of the soft palate in the canine model. Clinical studies are warranted to evaluate its efficacy as an office treatment for snoring.

Radiosensitive hemangiopericytoma in the soft palate.

Hemangiopericytomas are uncommon neoplasms of vascular origin, and rarely arise in the pharynx. We report a case of a 78-year-old female with hemangiopericytoma in her soft palate exhibiting prominent radiosensitivity. Hemangiopericytomas are considered to be radioresistant and wide local excision is a treatment of choice, but their nature is widely variable. In treating aggressive hemangiopericytomas, radiation therapy can be selected.

Curved angiocatheter metal guide for the implantation in velo-tonsillar carcinomas.

Brachytherapy in velo-tonsillar region is not applied in all the institutions because of difficulties to learn it. For the implantation of wires in the soft palate, the Reverdin needle is replaced by a curved guide of angiocatheter 14 Gauge. This technique is easy and reduces the risk of tear mucosa.

[Value of the combination of external radiotherapy and curietherapy in carcinoma of the velo-tonsillar region. Statistical study of a series of 361 patients]. / Intérêt de l'association radiothérapie externe-curiethérapie dans les carcinomes de la région véloamygdalienne. Etude statistique d'une série de 361 patients.

From 1977 to 1991, we treated 361 carcinomas of the velotonsillar region, either by brachytherapy alone (18 cases), or by an association of external radiotherapy and brachytherapy (343 patients). The latter was performed using a special technique with iridium wires in plastic tubes with afterloading. The primary was the tonsil in 128 patients, the soft palate in 134 patients. We numbered also 9 posterior pillars, 63 anterior pillars and 27 velotonsillar sulcus. According to the UICC staging system (28), we classified the patients in 90 T1, 141 T2, 119 T3, 2 T4, 9 Tx with 230 N0, 93 N1, 9 N2, 20 N3 and 9 Nx. The results at 5 and 10 years show respectively: local control (LC) 80% and 75%, locoregional control 75% and 70%, global survival 53% and 28%, specific survival 63% and 52%. The univariate study shows at 5 years a better local control for T1-T2 (87%) than for T3 (67%) with p = 0.00004. The locoregional control is better for N0 (80%) than for N+ (66%) with p = 0.002, this is the same for global survival (59% versus 42%, p = 0.002). The two groups were individualised according to the primary. Inside each of these groups, the prognosis is identical for different localisations, which allows to put them together. We can therefore distinguish a group A which includes the tonsil, the soft palate and posterior pillar. This group has a better prognosis (controls and survivals) than group B (anterior pillar and velotonsillar sulcus) (p < 0.002). The tumours extended to the mobile tongue, the base of the tongue or the velotonsillar sulcus have a poorer prognosis than those without propagation or with an upwards propagation (p < 0.002). The statistical study of radiobiological factors that can influence the tissular repair shows that there are less recurrences if the duration of treatment is inferior to 55 days and if the interval between external irradiation and brachytherapy is inferior to 20 days. A sufficient safety margin seems also necessary for a good local control. The dose rate within the limits used does not seem to influence the local control and the total dose delivered to the tumour, but this is not surprising since the highest doses are given to the tumours with the smallest regression during external irradiation. The multivariate study for local control shows that the most significant factors are the T, the tumoral localisation and the total duration of treatment. For complications (classified in 4 stages), the dose rate is the most significant factor.

[Place of iridium 192 implantation in irradiation of T1-T2 squamous cell carcinoma of the velopharyngeal arch]. / Place de l'endocuriethérapie par iridium 192 dans l'irradiation exclusive des carcinomes épidermoïdes T1-T2 de l'arche véloamygdalienne.

We have reviewed the results of 165 T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinomas of the faucial arch treated by definitive irradiation including or not iridium 192 brachytherapy to ascertain whether a significant relationship exists between iridium implantation, local control, complications and survival. From March 1971 to November 1990, 58 T1 and 107 T2 (NO: 107/165; N1: 30/165; N2: 9/165; N3: 19/165) biopsy proven squamous cell carcinomas of the tonsillar region (104/165) and the soft palate and uvula (61/165) were treated in the Henri Mondor Hospital by definitive irradiation with curative intent. From 1971 to 1981 (period 1), only guide gutter technique was available, so that implants were reserved for small tumors: patients were either managed by definitive telecobaltherapy to tumor site and neck node areas (group I; n = 48; mean dose: 70 Gy; confidence interval: +/- 5.5, 5 fractions of 1.8 Gy per week) or by exclusive iridium implant (group 2; n = 11; all T1NO; 64 Gy +/- 4.8) or by a combination of external beam radiation therapy to tumor site and neck nodes areas and iridium implant (group 3; n = 40). In 1981 (period 2), a new plastic tube technique, which enables implantation of larger areas, was introduced and all patients (group 4; n = 66) were then managed by external radiation therapy (group 3 + 4: 47 Gy +/- 4.3) followed by an iridium implant (31 Gy +/- 10.5). Clinically positive neck nodes either received additional external dose with electrons or were excised. Overall 5-year survival (Kaplan Meier) was 23%, 50.5%, and 60% in groups 1, 2 and 3 + 4, respectively (p < 0.001, log rank). Five-year local control was 58%, 100%, and 91%, respectively (p < 0.001). Five-year necrosis rate was 10%, 25% and 30%, respectively (NS). Comparison of results between the two periods of the study (group 1 + 2 + 3 vs group 4) shows that these two groups are statistically comparable according to site and size of tumor and N status and that both local control (77% vs 94% at 5 years; p < 0.01) and disease free survival (56% vs 71%; p = 0.03) were improved after 1980, while there was a trend to an increase in overall survival (42% vs 53% at 5 years; p = 0.08); nodal control (86% vs 95% at 5 years) and necrosis rate (11% vs 20% at 5 years) were not modified. Multivariate analysis showed that both local control (p < 0.0001) and overall survival (p < 0.0001) were improved when tumor was implanted. We recommend then to treat T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinomas of the faucial arch by external radiation therapy to tumor site and neck areas (45 Gy/25 fractions/5 weeks) followed by a 30 Gy iridium implant and, for patients with clinically positive nodes, either a further 25-30 Gy electron beam irradiation to the nodes or neck node dissection.

Carcinoma of the soft palate and the posterior oropharyngeal wall.

Between 1966 and 1984, 14 patients with carcinoma of the soft palate and eight patients with a posterior oropharyngeal wall carcinoma were treated at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. In the soft palate group, the majority of patients (10) had small tumours T1-T2; the median patient delay was 1 month (range 0-5). Eleven patients were treated with radiotherapy and three with surgery, as single treatment modalities. Tumour control was achieved in 10 patients following initial treatment. Five-year results for tumour control and overall survival were 67% and 41%, respectively. In the posterior wall group all patients had advanced tumours (T3-T4), after a median patient delay of 4 months (range 0-6). Six patients were treated with radiotherapy, one with surgery only and one with a combination of these. Following the initial treatment, tumour control was achieved in half of the patients. Five-year tumour control was 50%, and overall survival at 5 years was 38%. In conclusion, the tumours in these two sub-sites of the oropharynx differ significantly in the extent of the primary tumour (P < 0.01), posterior wall tumours being more advanced on admission, after a significantly longer history (P < 0.01).

Place of Iridium 192 implantation in definitive irradiation of faucial arch squamous cell carcinomas.

PURPOSE: We have reviewed the results of 165 T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinomas of the faucial arch treated by definitive irradiation including or not Iridium 192 brachytherapy to ascertain whether a significant relationship existed between Iridium implantation, local control, complications, and survival. METHODS AND MATERIALS: From March 1971 to November 1990, 58 T1 and 107 T2 (NO: 107/165; N1: 30/165; N2: 9/165; N3: 19/165) biopsy proven squamous cell carcinomas of the tonsillar region (104/165) and the soft palate and uvula (61/165) were treated in Henri Mondor Hospital by definitive irradiation with curative intent. From 1971 to 1981 (period 1), only guide gutter technique was available, so that implants were reserved for small tumors: patients were either managed by definitive telecobaltherapy to tumor site and neck node areas (Group 1; n = 48; mean dose: 70 Gy; confidence interval: +/- 5.5; 5 fractions of 1.8 Gy per week) or by exclusive Iridium implant (Group 2; n = 11; all T1NO; 64 Gy +/- 4.8) or by a combination of external beam radiation therapy to tumor site and neck nodes areas and Iridium implant (Group 3; n = 40). In 1981 (Period 2), a new plastic tube technique, which enables implantation of larger areas, was introduced in the department and all patients (Group 4; n = 66) were then managed by external radiation therapy (Group 3 + 4: 47 Gy +/- 4.3) followed by an Iridium implant (31 Gy +/- 10.5). Clinically positive neck nodes either received additional external dose with electrons or were excised. RESULTS: Overall 5-year survival (Kaplan Meier) was 21%, 50.5%, and 60% in groups 1, 2, and 3 + 4, respectively (p < 0.001, log rank). Five-year local control was 58%, 100%, and 91%, respectively (p < 0.001). Five-year necrosis rate was 4.5%, 20.5% and 18%, respectively (N.S.). Comparison of results between the two periods of the study (Group 1 + 2 + 3 vs. group 4) show that these two groups are statistically comparable according to site and size of tumor and N status and that both local control (77% vs. 94% at 5 years; p < 0.01) and disease-free survival (56% vs. 71%; p = 0.03) were improved after 1980, while there was a trend to an increase in overall survival (42% vs. 53% at 5 years; p = 0.08); nodal control (86% vs. 95% at 5 years), and necrosis rate (11% vs. 20% at 5 years) were not modified. Multivariate analysis showed that both local control (p < 0.0001) and overall survival (p < 0.0001) were improved when tumor was implanted. CONCLUSION: We recommend then to treat T1 and T2 squamous cell carcinomas of the faucial arch by external radiation therapy to tumor site and neck areas (45 Gy/25 fractions/5 weeks) followed by a 30 Gy Iridium implant and, for patients with clinically positive nodes, either a further 25-30 Gy electron beam irradiation to the nodes or neck node dissection.