Correlation between clinical and pathological data and surgical margins in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity

The importance of having tumor-free margins when resecting oral neoplasms has been known for decades.ObjectiveTo correlate clinical and pathology data to surgical margin status in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and floor of the mouth.MethodThis historical cohort cross-sectional study included all patients submitted to squamous cell carcinoma resection for tumors of the oral tongue and floor of the mouth between 2007 and 2011 at the Head and Neck Surgery service of our institution.ResultsIn the 117 cases included, 68.3% had tongue tumors. The male-to-female ratio was 2.3:1 and patient mean age was 57.6 years. Broad free resection margins were seen in 23.0% of the cases; narrow margins in 60.6% of the cases; and compromised margins in 16.2%. Tumor diameter and thickness were correlated to resection margins. Tumors in more advanced T-stages presented more unsatisfactory margins. Patients operated with broad free margins had their tumors resected more commonly through transoral approaches.ConclusionsTumors of larger volume both in terms of diameter and thickness were more correlated to unsatisfactory resection margins. Higher complexity procedures were not associated with better resection margins.     

Transoral robotic surgery for head and neck carcinomas

The objective of this study was prospectively to assess the feasibility and safety of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in head and neck carcinomas and to report our learning curve and 2-year outcomes. Patients with oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal and laryngeal tumors treated with TORS were prospectively included. We evaluated: the feasibility of TORS, robotic set-up time, transoral robotic surgery time, blood loss, surgical margins, tracheotomy, feeding tube, time to oral feeding and surgery-related complications. Twenty-three patients were treated for 25 carcinomas. Twenty-two patients underwent successful robotic resection for 24 carcinomas (96%). One patient required conversion to open surgery due to massive bleeding. The mean robotic set-up time was 25?min (range: 15–100?min) and mean TORS operating time was 70?min (range: 20–150?min). Positive margin of resection was observed in one patient (classified pT3) out of the 24 cancers and was managed by postoperative chemoradiation. No tracheotomy was performed. Three patients required prolonged intubation for a mean of 22?h. Two patients required a temporary gastrostomy (for 2 and 3.5?months, respectively). All other patients resumed oral feeding between the first and third postoperative day. The mean hospital stay was 6.4?days (range: 4–19?days). No postoperative complication occurred. Mean follow-up was 20?months (median: 19, range: 14–26). No death and no case of local or metastatic failure were observed. TORS is feasible and safe for the resection of selected head and neck carcinomas. The occurrence of intraoperative bleeding emphasizes the need for surgeons to be skilled in both transoral and open approaches.     

Treatment outcomes of transoral robotic and non-robotic surgeries to treat oropharyngeal,hypopharyngeal, and supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma: A multi-center retrospective observational study in Japan

ObjectivesThe aim of this multicenter retrospective cohort study was to compare efficacy and subsequent postoperative treatment between transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and any non-robotic transoral surgery in Japanese patients with early oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), hypopharyngeal SCC (HPSCC), or supraglottic SCC (SGSCC).Materials and methodsClinical information and surgical outcomes were compared between patients with early-stage OPSCC, HPSCC, and SGSCC who underwent TORS (TORS cohort) and those who underwent non-robotic transoral surgery, including transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery (TOVS), endoscopic laryngopharyngeal surgery (ELPS), and transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) (non-robotic cohort). The data of the Head and Neck Cancer Registry of Japan (registry cohort) were used to validate the comparison. The main outcomes were the presence of positive margins under pathology and the requirement for postoperative therapy, including radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy.ResultsSixty-eight patients in the TORS cohort, 236 patients in the non-robotic cohort, and 1,228 patients in the registry cohort were eligible for this study. Patients in the TORS cohort were more likely to have oropharyngeal tumor disease and T2/3 disease than those in the other cohorts (P<0.001 and P=0.052, respectively). The TORS cohort had significantly fewer patients with positive surgical margins than the non-robotic cohort (P=0.018), as well as fewer patients who underwent postoperative treatment, although the difference was not significant (P=0.069). In the subgroup analysis of patients with OPSCC, a total of 57 patients in the TORS cohort, 73 in the non-robotic cohort, and 171 in the registry cohort were eligible for the present study. Patients with OPSCC who underwent TORS were more likely to have lateral wall lesions than those in the other cohorts (P=0.003). The TORS cohort also had significantly fewer patients with positive surgical margins than the non-robotic cohort (P=0.026), and no patients in the TORS cohort underwent any postoperative treatment for OPSCC, although the difference was not significant (P=0.177).ConclusionsOur results suggest that TORS leads to fewer positive surgical margins than non-robotic transoral surgeries. The clinical significance of TORS may be further validated through the results of all-case surveillance for patients who underwent TORS running in Japan in the future.     

A novel procedure combining transoral resection and set-back tongue flap for oropharyngeal cancer

Seven patients with advanced lateral oropharyngeal cancer (T3N2bM0, or T4N2bM0) underwent transoral lateral oropharyngectomy (TLO) with reconstruction performed through set-back tongue flap and polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheet. TLO was performed following en bloc resection of tumors using endoscopy. To cover the resulting defect in the lateral oropharyngeal wall, the set-back tongue flap was moved posteriorly and laterally to the area of the tongue base and lateral pharyngeal wall. The tip of the set-back tongue flap was sutured to the lateral pharynx to reconstruct the elevated tongue base and altered anterior pillar. The defect on the floor of the mouth was reconstructed using a PGA sheet. Following surgery, the mean observation period was 24 months. The mean operating time was 4 h and 2 min, with an average blood loss of 68.1 ml. All oral intake resumed on the first postoperative day via gastric tube. The mean gastric tube removal time was 1.6 postoperative days as a result of sufficient oral intake. None of the patients received postoperative radiotherapy or displayed evidence of tumor recurrence. We conclude that this novel procedure is highly effective for treating advanced oropharyngeal cancer as it demonstrates good prognostic and functional outcomes.     

Pyogenic spondylodiscitis after transoral surgery for oropharyngeal cancer

We report the case of a patient with pyogenic spondylodiscitis after transoral surgery for oropharyngeal cancer. The patient was a 66-year-old man with a history of hepatic cell carcinoma, alcoholic cirrhosis, and chronic pancreatitis. The tumor was resected via a transoral approach with concurrent bilateral elective neck dissections. Although the initial postoperative course was uneventful, the patient experienced severe cervical pain because of which he revisited the hospital. The patient was diagnosed with pyogenic spondylodiscitis, according to the results of magnetic resonance imaging. Continuous treatment with parenteral antibiotics and a cervical brace was required for 2 months before all his symptoms and signs diminished. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pyogenic spondylodiscitis as a complication of transoral resection for head and neck cancer.     

Resection of an oropharyngeal venous malformation

BackgroundVenous malformations (VMs) are congenital vascular lesions caused by enlarged and ectatic venous channels. Current methods of treatment for VMs involve a combination of sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical resection. While sclerotherapy remains the most commonly used treatment for small VMs, surgery remains an important tool for isolated VMs or larger VMs with higher flow due to potential local and systemic side effects associated with the use of certain sclerosing agents.Methods/resultsHere we present a case of a patient with a naso- and oropharyngeal venous malformation which was successfully resected with endoscopic-assisted transoral surgery.ConclusionsThis is a low-fingerprint technique to tumors of the oropharynx with excellent visualization and maneuverability in cases where TORS is not an option. This technique does not require palate splitting or excessive retraction, allows multiple surgeons to work simultaneously, and is associated with significantly lower morbidity than transcervical techniques.Level of evidenceN/A.     

鼻内镜下切除鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤的体会

目的探讨鼻内镜下切除鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤的疗效及安全性。方法分析2008年1月—2018年1月北京市仁和医院诊治的5例鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤患者的临床资料,鼻内镜下应用低温等离子射频切除鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤,术中出血1~100 ml,平均出血20 ml,术后观察疗效。结果5例均治愈,术后无出血及并发症,血管瘤均一次性切除,随访1年无复发。结论鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤如果反复出血或出现并发症,宜尽早手术治疗。鼻内镜下应用低温等离子射频切除鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤,具有操作简单、出血少、痛苦小、术后恢复快及微创等优点,是治疗鼻腔妊娠期血管瘤的有效方法,值得临床应用和推广。     

Endoscopic resection of nasopharyngeal angiofibromas by combined transnasal and transoral routes

PURPOSE: To determine the role of endoscopic surgery in decreasing intraoperative bleeding, morbidity, and hospitalization period of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma resection and to describe combined endoscopic transnasal and transoral approaches. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twelve cases of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma diagnosed by endoscopic examination, computed tomography, and angiography were selected for endoscopic resection. Tumor staging ranged from stage I(A) to II(B). Ten patients underwent preoperative selective arterial embolization, and in 1 case selective arterial ligation was used. In general, the tumors were approached endoscopically through nasal and oral cavities with 0 degrees and 30 degrees 4-mm telescopes without any incision and no packing at their termination. RESULTS: The patients were followed by endoscopy and computed tomography. There was a dramatic decrease in intraoperative bleeding and postoperative morbidity. No early postoperative complications were seen. Two recurrences were observed in 12 patients up to a mean follow-up of 15 months. CONCLUSIONS: Minimal bleeding, decreased morbidity, and shorter hospitalization period were the main reasons that prompted us to use endoscopic technique for the removal of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. Adding transoral endoscopic approach to the transnasal endoscopic approach provides 2-sided exposure and appreciate access to angiofibroma.     

Successful transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery for leiomyoma in the base of the tongue

Leiomyomas are benign tumors with smooth muscle differentiation that occur most frequently in the uterine myometrium. They are uncommon in the head and neck region. We report a rare case of tongue base leiomyoma successfully resected with transoral endoscopic surgery.A 14-year-old male was found to have a tongue base tumor. The tumor located in the right tongue base. It had a smooth surface and no deep invasion. The tumor was resected with transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery. There were no serious adverse events requiring further intervention. Histologically, the tumor was composed of densely cellular fascicles of spindle-shaped cells with smooth muscle differentiation with diffuse and intense reactivity for α-smooth muscle actin, desmin, calponin, and anaplastic lymphoma kinase on immunohistochemistry. After careful consideration of the differential diagnosis, the tumor was diagnosed a smooth muscle tumor, mostly consistent with leiomyoma.This is the first report of leiomyoma arising from the tongue base that was completely resected by transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery without adverse events. For tongue base tumors, endoscopic transoral surgery can be considered as an option for complete resection without impairment of postoperative function.     

Surgical Variables Affecting Speech in Treated Patients With Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer

Postoperative speech function may be influenced by a number of treatment variables. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships among various treatment factors to determine the impact of these measures on speech function. Speech function was tested prospectively in 142 patients with surgically treated oral and oropharyngeal cancer 3 months after treatment. Each patient's speech was recorded during a 6- to 7-minute conversation and while performing a standard articulation test, producing speech outcome measures of percent correct consonant phonemes and percent conversational understandability. Correlational analyses were used to determine the relationships among the speech outcome measures and 14 treatment parameters. Speech function was mildly to moderately negatively correlated with most surgical resection variables, indicating that larger amounts of tissue resected were associated with worse speech function. Overall measures of conversational understandability and percent correct consonant phonemes were related to extent of oral tongue resection, floor of mouth resection, soft palate resection, and total volume of tissue resected. These relationships varied depending on the method of surgical closure. Method of surgical reconstruction had a profound impact on postoperative speech function 3 months after treatment and was an important factor in determining how oral tongue resection influenced articulation and intelligibility. The combination of closure type, percent oral tongue resected, and percent soft palate resected had the strongest relationship with overall speech function for patients with surgically treated oral and oropharyngeal cancer 3 months after treatment.     

National analysis of positive surgical margins in oropharyngeal salivary gland malignancies

ObjectivePositive surgical margins (PSM) are associated with worse survival in oropharyngeal salivary gland malignancies (OPSGM), but existing literature is limited to small series. Our objective was to identify risk factors for PSM using the national cancer database (NCDB), including a transoral robotic surgical (TORS) approach.MethodsNCDB was queried for patients with T1-T4a OPSGM undergoing resection between 2010 and 2017. Risk factors for PSM were determined using logistic regression. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models.ResultsOf 785 patients, 165 (21.0 %) had PSM. Age, stage T4a tumors (OR 2.00, 95 % Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.03–3.88), adenoid cystic carcinoma (OR 2.02, 95 % CI: 1.29–3.18), and treatment at lower volume institutions (OR 1.68, 95 % CI: 1.09–2.59) were all independently associated with PSM. TORS versus a non-robotic approach was not associated with PSM (23.9 % vs 20.4 %, p 0.358), respectively. Positive margins were independently associated with a worse OS than negative margins (HR 1.63, 95 % CI: 1.03–2.59). Adjuvant radiation therapy was associated with improved survival in high grade tumors with positive margins.ConclusionThis study represents the largest review assessing risk factors for positive margins in OPSGM. Histologic type (adenoid cystic carcinoma), age, T4a tumor stage and treatment at a lower volume institution were all predictive of positive margins. With increasing use of TORS over the last decade, there does not appear to be a greater risk of positive margins using this modality in select patients.Level of evidence: N/A.     

Resection of cancer of the tongue base and tonsil via the transhyoid approach

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether transhyoid resection of the tongue base and tonsil lesions is an effective approach to tumors involving this region compared with more traditional anterior surgical approaches that arbitrarily involve either segmental resection or division of the mandible. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review. METHODS: Since 1988, we have used a combined transhyoid and transoral approach to resect lesions involving the tongue base, tonsil, or both. Forty-one patients were identified who underwent surgical resection of lesions involving this region via this combined approach during this period. A stage-matched group of 41 patients was also identified in which patients underwent resection via traditional composite or mandibulotomy approaches and was used as a basis for comparison. Factors assessed included status of surgical margins, postoperative complications, degree of postoperative dysphagia, and long-term outcome. RESULTS: Comparison between the two groups revealed similar rates of negative surgical margins. Levels of postoperative dysphagia, notably severe primarily in patients with either T4 or recurrent disease, were also similar between groups. Complication rates, especially with regard to fistula occurrence and mandible-healing problems, were significantly lower in the transhyoid group. Analysis of long-term outcome revealed similar patterns with regard to disease status in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The combined transhyoid and transoral approach is an effective surgical option for a number of lesions affecting the tongue base, tonsil, or both. Although similar to other approaches with regard to postoperative function and disease outcome, the transhyoid approach is associated with decreased postoperative morbidity. However, tumors that extend to involve the mandible or pterygoid musculature or skull base are probably best suited for traditional approaches that involve division of the mandible.     

Transoral robotic-assisted free flap reconstruction after radiation therapy in hypopharyngeal carcinoma: report of two cases

The objective was to assess the feasibility and safety of transoral robotic surgery (TORS)-assisted free flap reconstruction for hypopharyngeal carcinoma after radiation therapy. The study evaluated the feasibility, surgical margins, the need for a tracheotomy, a nasogastric tube as well as surgery-related complications. Two patients underwent TORS-assisted free flap reconstruction after radiation therapy. The resection margins were free of tumor in both patients. A tracheotomy was performed in one patient who had been decannulated on the sixth postoperative day. One patient resumed satisfactory oral feeding in the fourth postoperative month and the second patient on postoperative day 7. No intraoperative complication and one postoperative complication (neck hematoma) were reported. After a follow-up period of 24 and 30 months, no local recurrence was observed. TORS is feasible for hypopharyngeal resection and assisted free flap reconstruction after radiation therapy. It represents a further step in the development of minimally invasive surgery for the treatment of head and neck cancers with laryngeal preservation.     

Transorale Resektion lokal fortgeschrittener Plattenepithelkarzinome der Oropharynxseitenwand

INTRODUCTION: Transoral laser microsurgery of locally advanced carcinomas of the lateral pharynx often results in exposure of major vessels of the neck and is accompanied by a substantial risk of intra- and postoperative bleeding. We therefore only perform these operations after external protection of neck vessels, if necessary combined with flap reconstruction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between October 2001 and December 2004, 11 locally advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the lateral oropharynx that reached the major vessels of the neck were treated as follows: after ipsilateral neck dissection with temporary protection of the jugular vein and carotid arteries, the neck remained open while transoral laser surgery of the primary tumor was performed. Pharyngeal defects were subsequently closed by either primary suture or a platysma myofascial flap. All patients underwent adjuvant radiotherapy. RESULTS: All primary tumors were completely resected. None of the patients required tracheotomy or placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube. The mean duration of nasogastric feeding tubes was 12.7 days. In one case, the routine radiological contrast study revealed a blind cervical fistula 10 days after surgery. This healed spontaneously within 7 days. One mild postoperative hemorrhage had to be stopped by endoscopic coagulation under general anesthesia. During a mean follow-up of 19.4 months, none of the patients developed a local and/or regional recurrence. CONCLUSION: The surgical procedure described ensures sufficient protection of neck vessels during and after the transoral resection of advanced carcinomas of the pharynx. It successfully combines the advantages of minimally invasive laser microsurgery with those of flap reconstruction known from traditional surgery.     

Pathomorphological aspects of transoral resection of hypopharyngeal carcinoma with preservation of the larynx. Patient selection, treatment results

BACKGROUND: In primary surgery of hypopharyngeal cancer, transcervical resection was chosen in order to preserve the larynx. This treatment produces good oncological results but also a high degree of morbidity so that in recent years transoral resection has been recommended. For wider application of this method it is very important to apply clearly defined criteria for selection of patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: To define the criteria for selection for transoral microsurgical resection, we analyzed step serial sections of 33 whole organ specimens of hypopharyngeal squamous cell cancer (SCC) after primary radical surgery, mostly carcinoma of the piriform sinus. Criteria concerning the primary and the involvement of the neck nodes were differentiated. Twenty of 84 patients with hypopharyngeal cancer of different stages were treated by transoral resection and delayed neck dissection between 1994 and 1996. Most of the patients were irradiated postoperatively because of neck metastases. The therapeutic results after a minimum period of 24 months follow-up is listed according to Kaplan-Meyer. RESULTS: Three types were defined according to their site, growth, and spread into the larynx: Type I comprises limited exophytic, highly differentiated SCC with a minor tendency for metastasis originating in the upper half of the sinus. These tumors are well suitable for transoral resection. Type II includes tumors spreading superficially without deeper invasion of the larynx, especially of the laryngeal framework. These can be totally resected and the larynx preserved in spite of extended metastasis. Type III, the most frequent type, grows with ulceration and deeply infiltrates into the larynx and the neck. These tumors cannot be resected transorally. Primary radical resection is indicated. Up to 25% of all hypopharyngeal SCC could be treated by transoral resection, mostly with delayed neck dissection and postoperative irradiation. Functional results were excellent in all cases. Eating, voice, and air passage were normal. Oncological results with 80% disease free five-year survival rate were very good. Three patients died because of recurrences in the neck, only one because of a recurrence in the larynx. The rate of patients with a second primary, however, was extremely high (50%). CONCLUSIONS: By strictly following the pathological and clinical criteria for selection, about 25% of the SCC of the hypopharynx can be treated by transoral resection combined with neck dissection and postoperative irradiation with good oncological and excellent functional results, preserving the larynx without endangering the life of the patients.     

A new paradigm for the diagnosis and management of unknown primary tumors of the head and neck: A role for transoral robotic surgery

Objectives/Hypothesis:

In 2% to 3% of patients with cancer metastatic to cervical lymph nodes, a primary tumor will not be found despite exhaustive diagnostic efforts. The treatment for these patients includes cervical lymphadenectomy followed by radiation to areas with increased risk of harboring a mucosal primary. Wide‐field radiation therapy increases the incidence of xerostomia and dysphagia. Localizing a primary tumor has thus both therapeutic and quality‐of‐life implications, allowing possible complete surgical excision, concentrated radiation therapy, and potential deintensification of adjuvant therapy. With improved visualization and freedom of motion, transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is an innovative surgical modality that allows resection of oropharyngeal subsites with minimal morbidity.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

Ten patients with unknown primary tumors of the head and neck were identified. All patients underwent a cervical biopsy, positron‐emission tomography/computed tomography, formal endoscopy, and bilateral tonsillectomy. When the initial endoscopy and biopsies did not localize a primary tumor, all patients underwent transoral robotic base of tongue resection.

Results:

Evaluation of the patients' oropharyngeal mucosa using the robot did not reveal an obvious lesion and no palpable tumors were appreciated in the resected specimens. In 9/10 (90%) patients, pathologic examination revealed invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA) with a mean diameter of 0.9 cm.

Conclusions:

Unknown primary SCCA presents a diagnostic challenge to the head and neck surgeon. We present a small series of tumors that would have been treated as unknown primaries under traditional diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms. TORS base of tongue resection identified primary tumors in 90% patients with minimal morbidity. Laryngoscope, 2013     

低温等离子射频消融术治疗早期声门型喉癌的疗效观察

目的　探讨低温等离子射频消融术治疗早期声门型喉癌的疗效。方法　22例无淋巴转移的早期声门型喉鳞状细胞癌（Tis～T2）患者接受了支撑喉镜下等离子射频消融术,术前及术后均未进行放化疗。术后随访30～72个月。结果　所有患者术后均无明显的并发症产生,无呼吸困难、无出血,仅诉轻微疼痛,当天即可发音、进食。22例患者肿瘤切除彻底,随访至今无瘤生存。1例前连合低分化鳞状细胞癌病变并侵犯声门下,术后4个月复发,行喉部分切除术后随访至今未见复发。结论　低温等离子刀射频消融治疗早期声门型喉癌疗效满意,值得推广。     

Telescopic-assisted radiofrequency adenoidectomy: a prospective randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: The objective was to conduct a prospective randomized controlled trial describing and investigating the efficacy and safety of transoral telescopic-assisted radiofrequency adenoidectomy in young children. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective randomized controlled trial. METHODS: One hundred twenty patients who were 36 months of age or less and planned to undergo adenoidectomy or adenoidectomy with insertion of tympanostomy tubes were included in the study. Children were prospectively and randomly assigned into two equal treatment groups: the telescopic-assisted adenoidectomy using radiofrequency curette and the conventional adenoid-curette adenoidectomy. The main parameters included visual analogue scale score for nasal breathing, amount of blood loss, operating time, completeness of adenoid resection, smoothness of postoperative recovery, and complications. RESULTS: Both groups had a significant improvement in the visual analogue scale score after surgery with no evidence for a significant difference between the conventional adenoid-curette and radiofrequency groups. The amount of blood lost during radiofrequency adenoidectomy was minimal, with a mean difference of 31 mL and a median difference of 26 mL. There was a tendency for shorter operative time in the radiofrequency group, but this did not reach a statistical significance. No evidence for a significant difference was noticed in the smoothness of postoperative recovery or complication rate. CONCLUSION: Telescopic-assisted radiofrequency-curette adenoidectomy allows removal of huge adenoids completely in a precise, easy, and cost-effective procedure, with minimal blood loss and short operating time. The use of transoral telescopes provides a clear visualization that helps complete removal of the adenoids, reduction of unnecessary trauma, and effective control of bleeding.     

Intraoperative radiotherapy of skull base cancer.

As the head and neck surgeon expands the boundaries of resectability into the skull base, the margin of tumor clearance diminishes. Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) can be used as an adjunct to skull base surgery and external beam radiation to enhance local control in areas with close margins or remaining microscopic disease. During the period from May 1982 to May 1988, 25 patients underwent IORT of the skull base following resection and prior to closure to treat microscopic disease in 9 patients, sterilize close margins in 14 patients, and attempt to eliminate remaining gross disease in 2 patients. The types of tumors treated were 13 squamous cell carcinomas, 4 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 3 high-grade mucoepidermoid carcinomas, 3 sarcomas, 1 malignant mixed tumor, and an oncocytic adenocarcinoma. The majority of the tumors either originated in the sinuses or were skull base extensions of oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancers. In 22 patients with 1-year follow-up, IORT prevented local recurrence in 14 (64%) patients. This may represent improved control of local disease in patients who historically have a very dismal prognosis. The indications, techniques, and complications of this exciting therapeutic modality are also reviewed.