Risk of contralateral nodal failure following ipsilateral IMRT for node-positive tonsillar cancer

Unilateral node-positive tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma is typically treated with radiotherapy to both the oropharynx and bilateral neck to limit the risk of contralateral regional failure. An unfortunate consequence of bilateral neck irradiation is significant dose delivery to the salivary glands, potentially leading to chronic xerostomia [1]. In recent years, ipsilateral neck irradiation for well-lateralized tonsillar cancer with limited nodal involvement has become increasingly accepted for its ability to spare the contralateral salivary glands and other normal tissue, thereby decreasing xerostomia and other morbidities [2 –5].
Source: Oral Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research