The impact of neuroradiology collaboration in head and neck cancer radiotherapy peer review.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the impact of neuroradiologist presence on head and neck cancer (HNC) radiotherapy peer review (PR) changes.

METHODS

Prospective data were collected from HNC radiotherapy PR meetings; major, minor, and organ at risk (OAR) changes recorded. Differences in changes made with a neuroradiologist present were determined. χ2 tests of statistical significance were performed. Multivariate logistic regression identified potential predictors of changes.

RESULTS

Prospective PR was performed in 125/160 (78%) patients undergoing radical (chemo)radiotherapy for HNC between October 2018 and September 2019. Full PR documentation was available for 120/160 meetings (75%), with a neuroradiologist present in 53/120 (44%). Overall, 51/120 (42.5%) had changes made to target volumes or OARs. When a neuroradiologist was present, 29/53 (55%) of plans had changes made, compared to 22/67 (33%) in their absence. On multivariate analysis, neuroradiologist presence significantly influenced any changes made during the PR meetings (OR 2.59; 95% CI 1.05-6.43; p = 0.039).

CONCLUSION

Neuroradiologist presence at PR meetings significantly influences changes made to HNC contouring, likely improving consistency and enhancing quality assurance.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This is the first published UK series demonstrating that a collaborative approach between radiology and oncology in PR meetings is significant in leading to contour changes for HNC.