Organ Preservation in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

Approximately 40,000 cases of head and neck cancer occur annually in the United States. Most patients with advanced tumors have traditionally been treated with surgery and radiation. Chemotherapy and radiation are capable of controlling local tumors in selected laryngeal cancers, with preservation of laryngeal function, but with no improvement in survival. Studies are ongoing to optimize management. Patients considered for organ preservation using multimodality therapy should be motivated and compliant and have a good performance status. Optimal patient selection, multimodal treatment delivery, and follow-up require a well-coordinated team of specialists.