Altered fractionation radiotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Introduction: Fractionation plays a pivotal role in determining the effectiveness of radiation and follows the principle of 4 “R” of radiobiology. The various altered fractionation schedules used are hyper-fractionation, accelerated fractionation, and hypo fractionation. Methods: We reviewed the landmark articles published in the peer reviewed journals to summarize the beneficial role of altered fractionation in the treatment of head and neck carcinoma. Results: Hyper-fractionation definitely gives very good overall survival benefit for locally advanced head and neck patient’s equivalent to survival benefit to that of concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Adding concomitant chemotherapy to altered fractionation is a logical approach to improve survival in locally advanced head and neck cancer patients, but it may be at a cost of higher toxicity. Mild hypo fractionation may be beneficial in early laryngeal cancers and may help in achieving better local control. Conclusion: Altered fractionation is a very important treatment schema and requires the reinforcement of its use.

Keywords

• Head and neck cancer
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Radiotherapy
• Altered fractionation