Abstract
There has been a change in practice in locally advanced laryngopharyngeal cancers
toward non-surgical treatment modalities. Although, there have been landmark trials
pertinent to organ preservation, their applicability in developing nations is a topic
of much debate. The organ preservation concept was based on the findings of pivotal
trials by the Veterans Affairs, European Organization for Research and Treatment of
Cancer group and Radiation Therapy Oncology Group. Subsequently numerous studies have
been designed to evaluate intensification of treatment as well as study toxicity and
tolerability. This review critically analyses current evidence for larynx preservation,
experience from various centers on organ preservation strategies as well as applicability
of these protocols to developing nations.
Key words
Chemoradiotherapy - clinical protocols - developing countries