A Review and Comparative Analysis of Transoral Surgical Treatment versus Conservative Management in Early-Stage Oropharyngeal Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Oropharyngeal cancer requires a comprehensive evaluation of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. It is crucial to customize these treatments based on the stage of the tumor and the overall health of the patient, enabling personalized or combined approaches. Transoral surgical techniques have regained popularity due to the advancements and limitations of non-surgical strategies. The potential influence of surgical procedures on patients’ quality of life highlights the need for careful intervention selection; among them, the transoral approach has proven to be especially beneficial for early-stage oropharyngeal neoplasms. Methods: To explore potential treatments for early-stage oropharyngeal malignancies, this study carefully reviews the literature, using information from papers, current research, and global databases. The review protocol commenced on November 2023. A comprehensive search of the PUBMED database was undertaken, employing pertinent terms associated with oropharyngeal, transoral surgery or radiotherapy, robotic surgery, and chemotherapy. Results: Treating early-stage oropharyngeal neoplasms is particularly intriguing due to the multitude of variables influencing treatment decisions, leading to ongoing debates in specialized literature. Regardless of the chosen approach, maintaining a high quality of life is crucial. To assess this, standardized questionnaires from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer were employed, revealing superior outcomes for patients solely undergoing surgical intervention. Additionally, in the realm of specialized literature, cases of HPV-positive oropharyngeal neoplasms are recognized for their heightened radiosensitivity and more favorable long-term prognosis. Conclusions: Surgical intervention and radiotherapy are the main treatment options for oropharyngeal cancer, and they can be used separately or together for maximum effectiveness. Amid ongoing discussions, determining the superior effectiveness between the two options continues to be a matter of debate. This study provides a comprehensive analysis, offering valuable perspectives for future discussions. Neoplasm in the oropharynx can be effectively treated using transoral microsurgery.