Efficacy, outcomes, and complication rates of different surgical and nonsurgical treatment modalities for recurrent/residual oropharyngeal carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Treatment of recurrent oropharyngeal cancer is widely thought to have poor outcomes. Justification for treatment, especially in advanced cases, can be difficult. Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted. Included studies reported specific recurrent oropharyngeal cancer survival data. Results: Twenty-two retrospective studies were included. Pooled 3-year overall survival (OS) was 26% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 22% to 29%; I squared = 40.7%; p =.057). Pooled 5-year OS was 23% (95% CI = 20% to 27%; I squared = 73.9%; p =.000). Surgical treatment was superior to radiation (5-year OS 26% vs 16%, respectively; p