A retrospective review of treatment approach and outcomes for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer.

Background: We sought to provide clinicians with important insights into the best treatment plans for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC) by examining the treatment trends and outcomes of the disease.

Methods: Data pertaining to 158 patients with stage III to IVB LA-HNSCC who received treatment at our hospital from October 2019 to October 2021 were examined in this study. The clinical results of various treatment approaches were compared among the patients.

Results: Of the 158 patients, 42 (26.6%) received definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), 41 (36%) received induction chemotherapy (IC), and 95 (60.1%) underwent surgery. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 84.8%, 70.7%, and 59.3%, respectively, with a median follow-up of 36 months. No discernible difference in overall survival was observed between the CCRT and surgical groups (P = 0.397).

Conclusions: The decision regarding definitive CCRT, IC followed by definitive CCRT, surgery followed by adjuvant CCRT, or radiotherapy for patients with LA-HNSCC should be made in consultation with the multidisciplinary team. Furthermore, the decision should take into account the patient's overall health and the diagnosis, stage, developmental tendency, preferences, and prognosis of the disease. The most suitable overall treatment strategy for the patient must be formulated.