Organ-Sparing in Radiotherapy for Head-and-Neck Cancer: Improving Quality of Life

Semin Radiat Oncol. 2018 Jan;28(1):46-52. doi: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2017.08.002.

Abstract

This is an overview of select studies characterizing the effect of radiation on normal tissues in the treatment of head-and-neck cancer. Recommendations for organ-at-risk dose constraints aiming to reduce risks of xerostomia and dysphagia, the factors which have the highest effect on patient quality of life, are discussed, along with their supporting evidence. Recent advances in technology and biology, and their implications for reducing toxicity are explored. Considerations related to organ-sparing in the setting of treatment deintensification for good-prognosis head-and-neck cancer are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Organ Sparing Treatments*
  • Organ Specificity / radiation effects
  • Organs at Risk / radiation effects
  • Quality of Life*
  • Radiation Injuries / prevention & control*
  • Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated
  • Risk