Time-dose relationships for local tumor control and complications following irradiation of squamous cell carcinoma of the base of tongue.

Between October 1964 and September 1981, 114 previously untreated patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the base of the tongue were treated with curative intent by a radical course of irradiation at the University of Florida. With a minimum 2-year follow-up, local control was achieved in 78, 65, 76, and 17% of T1, T2, T3, and T4 lesions, respectively. Control results could be correlated with time-dose factors and treatment techniques. No patient required mandibulectomy for osteoradionecrosis following radiation therapy. Complications of bone and soft tissue could not be related to time-dose factors.