Overview of fractionation schedules for cancers of the head and neck

Purpose/Objective: To discuss clinically relevant radiation biology using head and neck cancer as a model. Materials and Methods: Experimental radiobiology and clinical analyses of results of a wide spectrum of treatment prescriptions. Results: Both clinical and experimental data show enhanced therapeutic differentials from small dose fractions and shortened treatment schedules. Conclusion: 1) The results of radiation oncology can be improved in individual patients by an understanding of radiobiology and by its application in everyday, standard types of treatment. 2) Experimental departures using hyperfractionation and/or shortened treatment times could improve the therapeutic ratio. 3) The biologic principles upon which rational decisions can be made regarding dose fractionation schedules in individuals, and in designing clinical protocols will be discussed