Hypofractionated versus standard fractionation radiotherapy in early glottic cancer: A retrospective review.

Aim: This retrospective review was conducted to compare outcomes using different fractionation schedules for early stage glottic cancer treated with radiotherapy between 1991 and 2003. Methods: The records of 87 patients with either T1 or T2 squamous cell carcinomas of the glottic larynx were analysed, dividing the patients into those treated with a hypofractionated schedule, mostly 51 Gy/16# (<53 Gy) and standard fractionation, minimum 60 Gy/30# in 2 Gy fractions. The median follow up was 4 years and 7 months. Results: Local control at 5 years was 81% with standard fractionation vs 93% in the hypofractionated group ( P = 0.1). Laryngectomy free survival at 5 years was 78% with standard fractionation versus 95% in the hypofractionated arm ( P = 0.017). Overall survival at 5 years was 65%with standard fractionation versus 74% in the hypofractionated arm ( P = 0.55). Conclusion: In early stage glottic cancer, a hypofractionated course of radiotherapy has been shown to be a safe and possibly more effective treatment compared with standard fractionation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]