Background: This study assessed a palliative radiotherapy regimen using daily radiation over 4 days for three courses in inoperable head and neck cancers, emphasizing oral primary cancers.
Methods: Retrospective data of 116 patients treated with a daily dose of 3.6-3.7 Gy in four fractions over 4 days to a total of three courses, with a 2-week gap after every course, were analyzed for survival outcomes. A subgroup analysis was done for oral cancer.
Results: Ninety-nine (85%) completed three courses. Overall subjective response rate was 77%. Median overall survival and progression-free survival were 12 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8-20) and 8 months (95% CI: 6-10), with numerically higher overall survival in oral cancer. The treatment was well tolerated, with no on-treatment hospitalization or grade 3-4 toxicities.
Conclusion: The modified QUAD SHOT regimen is practical for palliation in head and neck cancers.
Keywords: QUAD SHOT; advanced oral cancer; head and neck cancer; hypofractionated radiotherapy; oral cancer; palliative radiotherapy.
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