Ultra-Hypofractionated Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Glottic Cancer: Real-World Data From a Single Center

GÜNDOĞ M., KİRAZ E.

Head and Neck, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/hed.28139
  • Journal Name: Head and Neck
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Keywords: laryngeal cancer, local control, radionecrosis, ultra-hypofraction, voice quality
  • Erciyes University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background: In recent years, smaller-volume radiotherapy has attracted attention. It appears to be a safe and effective treatment for glottic laryngeal cancer. This study evaluated the results of ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy for early glottic laryngeal cancer in unfit patients. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 22 patients diagnosed with early glottic cancer between June 2017 and January 2021. The involved vocal cord was treated with 35–42.5 Gy in 5 fractions. Results: On a 59-month median follow-up, the 5-year overall survival and local control rate were 68.2% and 94.7%, respectively. However, the 5-year larynx preservation rate was 89.7%. Chondronecrosis was observed in one patient (4.5%), and soft tissue necrosis in one patient (4.5%). PTVD98 (> 41.08 Gy) was found to be statistically significant in surgery-needed events (HR: 22.4, 95% CI: 1.9–252.1, p = 0.01). Conclusion: Single-cord ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy appears to be an effective treatment for local control. However, the risk of radionecrosis is higher at doses above 41.08 Gy.