Surgical management of squamous cell carcinoma of the soft palate: factors predictive of outcome

Abstract

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma of the soft palate (SCCSP) is uncommon. The aim of this study was to report our experience and identify factors predictive of outcome.

Methods: Between 1976 and 2005, 186 patients with SCCSP were treated with curative intent. In all, 150 patients had primary surgery, of whom 112 patients (75%) had cT1/T2 tumors and 103 patients (69%) had cN0 necks. Overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were determined by the Kaplan-Meier method and factors predictive of outcome were identified.

Results: Five-year OS, DSS, and RFS for surgical patients were, respectively, 52%, 71%, and 56%. DSS for cT1T2N0 and cT1T2N+ were 79% and 56%, respectively. For OS and DSS, multivariate analysis showed cN classification was predictive of outcome. For RFS and distant RFS, margin status was a significant predictor, whereas the cT classification was a significant predictor for local RFS.

Conclusions: Outcomes of patients with early-stage SCCSP managed by surgery were excellent. These patients may be suitable for transoral robotic or endoscopic surgical procedures.