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DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1727884
Clinical trial on oncologic follow-up optimization in patients with completed curative treatment of head and neck cancer
Introduction Primary goal in oncologic follow-up after curative therapy is the early detection and treatment of disease relapse. Current literature indicates that tumor recurrences are mostly detected through newly developed symptoms or medical imaging as part of the restaging diagnostics.
Methods A systematic literature review was performed on international and national standards as well as clinical trials concerning oncologic follow-up in head and neck cancer. Based on these experiences a clinical trial with a novel follow-up protocol was elaborated. The study investigates if standard follow-up care in certified oncologic centers is equivalent concerning disease-free survival compared to follow-up care alternating performed by registered ENT-specialists and a head and neck cancer center. After systematic allocation to control or study group, the patients receive the follow-up for an observation period of 5 years. The compliance concerning the adherence to follow-up appointments in ENT-specialists offices is verified through phone calls on behalf of the oncologic center.
Results Since 06/2020 over 60 Patients were included. The feedback from registered ENT-specialists is promising. Additionally, compliance with the follow-up appointments in the study group is adequate. The referral of study participants to the head and neck tumor center in case of a suspected tumor relapse takes place promptly and without difficulty.
Conclusion The modified oncologic follow-up performed by registered ENT-specialists and the head and neck tumor centers alternating is a promising concept, that is appreciated especially by patients living in rural areas with long distances to the closest oncologic center. Long term results concerning disease-free survival will have to be awaited.
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Conflict of interest
Der Erstautor gibt keinen Interessenskonflikt an.
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Publication History
Article published online:
13 May 2021
© 2021. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonDerivative-NonCommercial-License, permitting copying and reproduction so long as the original work is given appropriate credit. Contents may not be used for commercial purposes, or adapted, remixed, transformed or built upon. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
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