A systematic review and practical considerations of stereotactic body radiotherapy in the treatment of head and neck cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) is gaining popularity although its use in head and neck cancer (HNC) is not well defined. The primary objective was to review the published evidence regarding the use of stereotactic radiotherapy in HNC.

Methods

A literature search was performed by using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for eligible studies from 2000 to 2019 and 26 relevant studies were identified.

Results

Literature demonstrates a heterogeneous use of this technique with regards to patient population, primary or salvage treatment, dose fractionation regimens, outcomes and follow-up protocols. Carotid blow out syndrome is a risk as with other forms of reirradiation but alternative treatment regimens may reduce this risk.

Conclusion

At present there is a l

SUBMITTER: Iqbal MS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7774675 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature