Decrease in hemoglobin levels following surgery influences the outcome in head and neck cancer patients treated with...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC) requires multimodal treatment.
• Hemoglobin (Hb) levels may impact treatment efficacy.
• The role of Hb in patients undergoing surgery and postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) needs further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the association between pre- and postoperative hemoglobin levels and outcomes in LAHNC patients.
• To determine if Hb decrease post-surgery influences survival rates after PORT.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 79 LAHNC patients treated with surgery and accelerated PORT.
• Collection of pre- and postoperative Hb levels.
• Median follow-up of 52 months.

Main Results:

• The overall survival rate at four years was 51%.
• Pre- and postoperative Hb levels did not individually predict outcomes.
• A significant decrease in Hb (≥38 g/l) post-surgery was associated with a poorer 4-year OS (16% vs. 61%, P=0.008).

Conclusions:

• Hemoglobin levels alone are not predictive of outcomes in LAHNC patients treated with surgery and PORT.
• Significant postoperative Hb decrease, indicative of blood loss, is a critical factor influencing survival.
• Monitoring and managing Hb levels after surgery are crucial for optimizing outcomes in patients receiving PORT.