Oncological and functional outcomes of transoral surgery for the treatment of oropharyngeal cancer

Background: Currently, most cases of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) are treated by chemoradiotherapy. However, serious concerns have arisen regarding toxicity and poor functional outcomes. Recently, transoral techniques for resection of selected OPSCC have been developed. Aims: To review the outcomes of transoral surgery for OPSCC at our institution. Methods: Retrospective review of 12 patients with OPSCC treated with transoral resection. Data on surgical complications, oncological outcomes, and functional outcomes were analysed. Results: Primary sites were tonsil (9), soft palate (1), base of tongue (1), and posterior pharyngeal wall (1). There were no surgical complications. After the mean follow-up of 19 months, there were no local or regional recurrences. Two patients (one with synchronous lung cancer) died from distant metastases. No patient required gastrostomy tube or had long-term speech or swallowing impairments. Conclusion: Transoral resection is an excellent option for selected patients with OPSCC, offering excellent functional and oncological outcomes.