Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) develops in the soft palate, tonsils, base of the tongue, pharyngeal wall and vallecula. Most patients with early-stage OPSCC are usually cured. Depending on the indication, early-stage OPSCC can be successfully treated with primary surgery including neck dissection or with definitive radiotherapy.
Aim of the study
The study investigates the extent to which surgery or radiotherapy influences the recovery of normal swallowing function after treatment of a malignant tumor in the throat at an early stage. Both forms of treatment are already being used successfully today, but so far there has been no clarification as to which therapy is better.
Who can participate?
Patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC)
Procedure
If you agree to participate, your doctor will carry out a series of examinations and tests to find out whether you are eligible for the study. The participants are divided into 2 groups. Each group will either undergo surgery or receive radiotherapy. During the study period, you will be asked to complete regular questionnaires about your swallowing function, your financial situation and your general quality of life. During the clinical follow-up and imaging procedures, your health will also be monitored according to standard practice.
Compensation
None
Original study name
Phase III study to evaluate the "best" radiotherapy compared to the "best" surgery (transoral surgery (TOS)) in patients with T1-T2, N0-N1 oropharyngeal carcinoma, supraglottic carcinoma and with T1, N0 hypopharyngeal carcinoma
BASEC number
2017-01600
Financial support from
European Organization forResearch and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC)