Advantages of VMAT-IMRT technique in nasopharyngeal cancer

Abstract BACKGROUND. Radiotherapy, associated with chemotherapy, is the main method of treatment in both early and advanced stages of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) provides high doses of radiation to the primary tumor, sparing the organs at risk. Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is one of the most promising radiation methods which produces superior target coverage, improving the protection of organs at risk and reduces treatment time. MATERIAL AND METHODS. We performed a retrospective study on 30 patients diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer and admitted in “Sfanta Maria” Clinical Hospital between October 2012 and December 2014. All patients have undergone VMAT-IMRT associated with induction or concurrent chemotherapy. At the end of the treatment, patients were followed up at one, three and six months, and then every six months for 2 years. RESULTS. At the end of the radio-chemotherapy treatment, 27 patients (90%) had a complete tumor and lymphatic response and 3 of them (10%) presented a partial response. At the end of the follow-up period, we observed 5 patients with recurrences, including 2 deceased. CONCLUSION. VMAT-IMRT in association with chemotherapy treatment is well tolerated by patients. The good results reflected in high rates of cured patients, the low incidence of side effects, recommend this treatment plan as an optimal indication for nasopharyngeal tumors.