Abstract
BACKGROUND: In recent years, smaller-volume radiotherapy has attracted attention. It appears to be a safe and effective treatment for glottic laryngeal cancer. This study evaluated the results of ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy for early glottic laryngeal cancer in unfit patients. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed 22 patients diagnosed with early glottic cancer between June 2017 and January 2021. The involved vocal cord was treated with 35-42.5 Gy in 5 fractions. RESULTS: On a 59-month median follow-up, the 5-year overall survival and local control rate were 68.2% and 94.7%, respectively. However, the 5-year larynx preservation rate was 89.7%. Chondronecrosis was observed in one patient (4.5%), and soft tissue necrosis in one patient (4.5%). PTV(D98) (> 41.08 Gy) was found to be statistically significant in surgery-needed events (HR: 22.4, 95% CI: 1.9-252.1, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Single-cord ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy appears to be an effective treatment for local control. However, the risk of radionecrosis is higher at doses above 41.08 Gy.