[Is there any progress in the treatment of squamous epithelial carcinoma of the oropharynx?].

The treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx still remains a problem because of the high rate of recurrence and the functional importance of the oropharynx in speech and swallowing. Although the technique of reconstruction after radical resection of the tumour has been considerably improved by the introduction of the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, the need for an alternative treatment is evident in those patients with advanced tumours (T3/T4) and/or with a high risk in connection with prolonged anaesthesia and postoperative care. In some of these cases, intraarterial (i.a.) chemotherapy prior to irradiation is of increasing importance in inducing complete remission with only few side effects. Further improvement of the treatment schedules and concise application of the pharmacokinetic principles governing i.a. infusion will help to raise the prospects of curative treatment for advanced carcinoma of the oropharynx.