Correlation between plan quality improvements and reduced acute dysphagia and xerostomia in the definitive treatment of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Background

To evaluate plan quality using volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and step‐and‐shoot intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (SS‐IMRT) techniques and for patients treated for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

Treatment plans for patients treated definitively for stages I‐IVb, OPSCC between December 2009 and August 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Dosimetric endpoints of involved organs‐at‐risk (OARs) were retrieved from clinical plans. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events scores of acute toxicities were compared.

Results

Two‐hundred twenty‐two patients were identified with 134 and 88 receiving SS‐IMRT and VMAT with median follow‐up time of 23.0 and 7.9 months, respectively. The dosimetric endpoints of the OARs were significantly improved in VMAT cohort, which translated into significantly lower rates of grade 2 or higher acute dysphagia and xerostomia.

Conclusion

Improvements in stages I‐IVb, oropharyngeal cancer plan quality are associated with reduced grade ≥ 2 acute dysphagia and xerostomia.

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