Salvage transoral robotic surgery in early stage oropharyngeal recurrence

ABSTRACT Objectives Limited data is currently available regarding outcomes following transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in the salvage setting. This study aims to investigate the functional and oncological outcomes following TORS in salvage oropharyngeal tumours. Study Design All patients undergoing salvage TORS for a residual, recurrent or new primary oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) within a previously radiated field, between March 2014 and October 2018 were included. Patients undergoing salvage TORS for other subsites were excluded. Margin status, complication rates, long term tracheostomy and gastrostomy requirements and overall and disease-free survival outcomes were recorded. Results A total of 26 patients were included. Three patients (11%) experienced a TORS-specific major complication. Gastrostomy tube was required in 42% of patients (n=11) on discharge, and in 28% of patients (n=7) on long term follow up at a median of 34 (IQR 11.8 – 47.8) months. A tracheostomy was placed in five patients and all were removed prior to discharge. The 3-year overall survival and disease-free survival was 74% and 70% respectively. Conclusion Salvage TORS is a viable and effective option in the management of selected tumours within a previously radiated field.