Treatment of tumors of the oropharynx

For most early-stage squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck that can be cured by operation, irradiation produces comparable cure rates. The choice of treatment rests on such factors as functional and cosmetic results, general state of the patient's health, and preference of the patient and family. Some patients prefer to participate in the selection of treatment, but most prefer to be presented with the options and told which is best for them. Potential advantages of irradiation over operation include the following: 1. No tissues are removed. 2. The threat of a major operation is avoided. 3. Elective irradiation of the clinically negative neck can be given with little added morbidity. 4. Surgical salvage of radiation failures is more likely to succeed than salvage of surgical failures by operation, irradiation, or a combination of both. 5. Irradiation can cover avenues of spread around the primary lesion with less morbidity than an extensive operation