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Sticker AL, Cannon ST, Russell GB, Waltonen JD. Factors associated with adjuvant treatment delays in patients treated surgically for head and neck cancer. Clin Otolaryngol 2024; 49:445-452. [PMID: 38610122 DOI: 10.1111/coa.14164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the patient and treatment characteristics associated with delay in post-operative radiation therapy (PORT) for patients treated surgically for head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) at our institution. DESIGN Single institution retrospective review. SETTING Tertiary care academic medical centre. PARTICIPANTS Patients treated surgically for HNSCC who underwent PORT between 2013 and 2016. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES AND RESULTS One hundred forty patients met inclusion criteria. A majority did not start radiotherapy within 6 weeks. Factors associated with a delayed initiation of PORT included length of stay >8 days, 30-day readmission, no adjuvant chemotherapy, post-operative complications and fragmented care. CONCLUSIONS A majority of patients did not initiate PORT within the guideline-recommended 6 weeks. Modifiable risks factors that delay initiation of PORT were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan L Sticker
- Department of Otolaryngology, Ochsner Health, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Sydney T Cannon
- Department of Otolaryngology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gregory B Russell
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joshua D Waltonen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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Drescher NR, Latortue T, Brisson RJ, Cassidy VD, Amdur RJ, Mendenhall WM, Hitchcock KE. Flap Reconstruction Results in Longer Overall Treatment Time in Patients Treated With Surgery and Adjuvant Radiotherapy for Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity and Larynx. Am J Clin Oncol 2024; 47:305-310. [PMID: 38421015 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is an inverse relationship between cancer cure and overall treatment time (OTT) in patients treated with surgical resection and radiotherapy (RT). METHODS OTT was evaluated based on the reconstruction procedure in 420 patients with oral cavity and larynx cancers treated with surgery and RT between 1991 and 2020. RESULTS With OTT >85 days, the difference between no versus yes flap reconstruction was ~20 percentage points and significant for all comparisons: primary closure (+/- skin graft), 49%, vs. rotation or free flap, 71% ( P <0.0001); primary closure (+/- skin graft), 49%, versus free flap without bone, 66% ( P =0.0358); and primary closure (+/- skin graft), 49%, versus free flap with bone, 82% ( P <0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The use of flap reconstructions results in substantial increases in OTT. Findings suggest a need to reevaluate current policies regarding the choice of reconstruction and starting RT sooner after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolette R Drescher
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
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Duckett KA, Kassir MF, Nguyen SA, Brennan EA, Chera BS, Sterba KR, Halbert CH, Hill EG, McCay J, Puram SV, Jackson RS, Sandulache VC, Kahmke R, Osazuwa-Peters N, Ramadan S, Nussenbaum B, Alberg AJ, Graboyes EM. Factors Associated with Head and Neck Cancer Postoperative Radiotherapy Delays: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2024. [PMID: 38842034 DOI: 10.1002/ohn.835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Initiating postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) within 6 weeks of surgery for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is included in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clincal Practice Guidelines and is a Commission on Cancer quality metric. Factors associated with delays in starting PORT have not been systematically described nor synthesized. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL. REVIEW METHODS We included studies describing demographic characteristics, clinical factors, or social determinants of health associated with PORT delay (>6 weeks) in patients with HNSCC treated in the United States after 2003. Meta-analysis of odds ratios (ORs) was performed on nonoverlapping datasets. RESULTS Of 716 unique abstracts reviewed, 21 studies were included in the systematic review and 15 in the meta-analysis. Study sample size ranged from 19 to 60,776 patients. In the meta-analysis, factors associated with PORT delay included black race (OR, 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-1.67), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 1.37, 95% CI, 1.17-1.60), Medicaid or no health insurance (OR, 2.01, 95% CI, 1.90-2.13), lower income (OR, 1.38, 95% CI, 1.20-1.59), postoperative admission >7 days (OR, 2.92, 95% CI, 2.31-3.67), and 30-day hospital readmission (OR, 1.37, 95% CI, 1.29-1.47). CONCLUSION Patients at greatest risk for a delay in initiating guideline-adherent PORT include those who are from minoritized communities, of lower socioeconomic status, and experience postoperative challenges. These findings provide the foundational evidence needed to deliver targeted interventions to enhance equity and quality in HNSCC care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A Duckett
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Mohamed Faisal Kassir
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Shaun A Nguyen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Emily A Brennan
- MUSC Libraries, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Bhisham S Chera
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Katherine R Sterba
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth G Hill
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jessica McCay
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sidharth V Puram
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ryan S Jackson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Vlad C Sandulache
- Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- ENT Section, Operative CareLine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Russel Kahmke
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Salma Ramadan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anthony J Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Evan M Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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4
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Graboyes EM, Cagle JL, Ramadan S, Prasad K, Yan F, Pearce J, Mazul AL, Anoma JS, Hill EG, Chera BS, Puram SV, Jackson R, Sandulache VC, Tam S, Topf MC, Kahmke R, Osazuwa-Peters N, Nussenbaum B, Alberg AJ, Sterba KR, Halbert CH. Neighborhood-Level Disadvantage and Delayed Adjuvant Therapy in Head and Neck Cancer. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2024; 150:472-482. [PMID: 38662392 PMCID: PMC11046410 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2024.0424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Importance For patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), initiation of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) within 6 weeks of surgery is recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines and the Commission on Cancer. Although individual-level measures of socioeconomic status are associated with receipt of timely, guideline-adherent PORT, the role of neighborhood-level disadvantage has not been examined. Objective To characterize the association of neighborhood-level disadvantage with delays in receiving PORT. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study included 681 adult patients with HNSCC undergoing curative-intent surgery and PORT from 2018 to 2020 at 4 US academic medical centers. The data were analyzed between June 21, 2023, and March 5, 2024. Main Outcome Measures and Measures The primary outcome was delay in initiating guideline-adherent PORT (ie, >6 weeks after surgery). Time-to-PORT (TTP) was a secondary outcome. Census block-level Area Deprivation Index (ADI) scores were calculated and reported as national percentiles (0-100); higher scores indicate greater deprivation. The association of ADI scores with PORT delay was assessed using multivariable logistic regression adjusted for demographic, clinical, and institutional characteristics. PORT initiation across ADI score population quartiles was evaluated with cumulative incidence plots and Cox models. Results Among 681 patients with HNSCC undergoing surgery and PORT (mean [SD] age, 61.5 [11.2] years; 487 [71.5%] men, 194 [29.5%] women) the PORT delay rate was 60.8% (414/681) and median (IQR) TTP was 46 (40-56) days. The median (IQR) ADI score was 62.0 (44.0-83.0). Each 25-point increase in ADI score was associated with a corresponding 32% increase in the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of PORT delay (aOR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.07-1.63) on multivariable regression adjusted for institution, age, race and ethnicity, insurance, comorbidity, cancer subsite, stage, postoperative complications, care fragmentation, travel distance, and rurality. Increasing ADI score population quartiles were associated with increasing TTP (hazard ratio of PORT initiation, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.53-0.96; 0.59; 95% CI, 0.44-0.77; and 0.54; 95% CI, 0.41-0.72; for ADI quartiles 2, 3, and 4 vs ADI quartile 1, respectively). Conclusions and Relevance Increasing neighborhood-level disadvantage was independently associated with a greater likelihood of PORT delay and longer TTP in a dose-dependent manner. These findings indicate a critical need for the development of multilevel strategies to improve the equitable delivery of timely, guideline-adherent PORT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Joshua Lee Cagle
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Salma Ramadan
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Kavita Prasad
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Flora Yan
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - John Pearce
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Angela L. Mazul
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jean-Sebastien Anoma
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Elizabeth G. Hill
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Bhisham S. Chera
- Hollings Cancer Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Sidharth V. Puram
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Ryan Jackson
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Vlad C. Sandulache
- Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- ENT Section, Operative CareLine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Samantha Tam
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Michael C. Topf
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Russel Kahmke
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Deputy Editor, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery
| | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Houston, Texas
| | - Anthony J. Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia
| | - Katherine R. Sterba
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences and Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
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5
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Duckett KA, Kassir MF, Nguyen SA, Brennan EA, Chera BS, Sterba KR, Hughes Halbert C, Hill EG, McCay J, Puram SV, Sandulache VC, Kahmke R, Ramadan S, Nussenbaum B, Alberg AJ, Graboyes EM. Delays Starting Postoperative Radiotherapy Among Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2024; 170:320-334. [PMID: 37731255 PMCID: PMC10840985 DOI: 10.1002/ohn.538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Initiating postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) within 6 weeks (42 days) of surgery is the first and only Commission on Cancer (CoC) approved quality metric for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). No study has systematically reviewed nor synthesized the literature to establish national benchmarks for delays in starting PORT. DATA SOURCES Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, we performed a systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL. REVIEW METHODS Studies that described time-to-PORT or PORT delays in patients with HNSCC treated in the United States after 2003 were included. Meta-analysis of proportions and continuous measures was performed on nonoverlapping datasets to examine the pooled frequency of PORT delays and time-to-PORT. RESULTS Thirty-six studies were included in the systematic review and 14 in the meta-analysis. Most studies utilized single-institution (n = 17; 47.2%) or cancer registry (n = 16; 44.4%) data. Twenty-five studies (69.4%) defined PORT delay as >6 weeks after surgery (the definition utilized by the CoC and National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines), whereas 4 (11.1%) defined PORT delay as a time interval other than >6 weeks, and 7 (19.4%) characterized time-to-PORT without defining delay. Meta-analysis revealed that 48.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 41.4-55.9) of patients started PORT > 6 weeks after surgery. Median and mean time-to-PORT were 45.8 (95% CI, 42.4-51.4 days) and 47.4 days (95% CI, 43.4-51.4 days), respectively. CONCLUSION Delays in initiating guideline-adherent PORT occur in approximately half of patients with HNSCC. These meta-analytic data can be used to set national benchmarks and assess progress in reducing delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A Duckett
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Mohamed Faisal Kassir
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Shaun A Nguyen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Emily A Brennan
- MUSC Libraries, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Bhishamjit S Chera
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Katherine R Sterba
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth G Hill
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jessica McCay
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sidharth V Puram
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Vlad C Sandulache
- Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- ENT Section, Operative CareLine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Russel Kahmke
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Salma Ramadan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anthony J Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Evan M Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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6
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Xu LJ, Rathi VK, Johns MM, Agarwala AV, Varvares MA, Naunheim MR. Trends in Response Rate to US News & World Report Best Hospitals Reputation Survey, 2015 to 2023. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2024; 170:284-288. [PMID: 37668169 DOI: 10.1002/ohn.509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Reputation score has been shown to be the strongest predictor of ranking in the US News & World Reports (USNWR) Best Hospitals report. However, the extent to which physicians participate in the underlying USNWR reputation survey is not well-characterized. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of USNWR public methodology reports from 2015 to 2023 to characterize trends in physician response rates by specialty, region, and Doximity membership. Overall response rates declined between 2015 (24.0%) and 2023 (8.9%). In 2023, rates ranged from 4.7% (psychiatry) to 13.9% (otolaryngology). Otolaryngology had the highest response rate among all specialties between 2017 and 2023. Within otolaryngology, both response rates (25.0% to 13.9%) and count (2106 to 1724 physicians) declined between 2015 and 2023. Among Doximity members, response rates were consistently higher for otolaryngologists in the Northeast and Midwest compared to other regions. Though hospital rankings often influence where patients seek care, our findings suggest USNWR reputation scores may not be reliable or representative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy J Xu
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vinay K Rathi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Michael M Johns
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Aalok V Agarwala
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark A Varvares
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew R Naunheim
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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7
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Chen AM, Harris JP, Tjoa T, Haidar Y, Armstrong WB. Racial disparities in the timely receipt of adjuvant radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. Oral Oncol 2023; 147:106611. [PMID: 37956484 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the influence of socioeconomic and demographic factors which might predict for excessive delays in the receipt of adjuvant radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS The medical records of 430 consecutive patients referred for adjuvant radiation after surgical resection for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were reviewed. The number of days from surgery to initiation of radiation was recorded. To study the variability in which adjuvant radiation was delivered, descriptive statistics were used to determine the percentage of patients who deviated from starting treatment beyond the recommended benchmark of 42 days. The chi-square statistic was used to compare differences in proportion among subsets. A Cox proportional hazards model was constructed to perform a multi-variate analysis to identify factors which independently influenced the likelihood for non-adherence. RESULTS The interval between surgery and the start of radiation therapy ranged from 5 to 128 days (mean, 36 days). The mean number of days from surgery to radiation therapy was 31 days, 35 days, 40 days, and 42 days for Caucasians, Asians, Latino, and Black patients (p = 0.01). In all, 359 of 430 patients (83 %) started adjuvant radiation within 42 days. The proportion of patients who initiated radiation therapy within 42 days of surgery was 91 %, 86 %, 71 %, 65 %, and 80 % for Caucasians, Asians, Latinos, Blacks, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders, respectively (p < 0.001). Patient characteristics associated with higher odds of non-adherence to the timely receipt of adjuvant radiation therapy within then 42-day benchmark from surgery to radiation included race ([OR] = 4.23 95 % CI (1.30-7.97), non-English speaking status ([OR] = 2.38, 95 % CI: 0.61-4.50), and low socioeconomic status ([OR] = 1.21, 95 % CI: 1.01-1.86). CONCLUSION Underrepresented minorities are more likely to experience delays in the receipt of adjuvant radiation for head and neck cancer. The potential underlying reasons are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen M Chen
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA.
| | - Jeremy P Harris
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA
| | - Tjoson Tjoa
- Departments of Otolaryngology, University of California, Irvine, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA
| | - Yarah Haidar
- Departments of Otolaryngology, University of California, Irvine, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA
| | - William B Armstrong
- Departments of Otolaryngology, University of California, Irvine, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA
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8
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Dayan G, Bahig H, Fortin B, Filion É, Nguyen-Tan PF, O'Sullivan B, Charpentier D, Soulières D, Gologan O, Nelson K, Létourneau L, Schmittbuhl M, Ayad T, Bissada E, Guertin L, Tabet P, Christopoulos A. Predictors of prolonged treatment time intervals in oral cavity cancer. Oral Oncol 2023; 147:106622. [PMID: 37948896 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Delays in treatment time intervals have been associated with overall survival in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC). The aim of this study was to identify bottlenecks leading to prolonged treatment intervals. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted using a cohort of OCSCC patients who underwent surgery and adjuvant radiation therapy. The endpoints of interest were prolonged treatment intervals. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for patient and tumour characteristics. RESULTS Median diagnosis-to-treatment interval (DTI) and surgery to initiation of postoperative radiation therapy interval (S-PORT) were 39 days (IQR 30-54) and 64 days (IQR 54-66), respectively. Prolonged DTI was associated with older age, worse Charlson Comorbidity index scores and worse T stages. Patients with prolonged DTI had longer times to preoperative imaging reports (25 vs 9 days; P < 0.01). Time to preoperative pathology did not differ. Prolonged S-PORT was associated with longer times to pathology report (28 vs 18 days; P < 0.01), to maxillofacial consult (38 vs 15 days; P < 0.01) and to maxillofacial approval of radiation (50 vs 28 days; P < 0.01). In patients requiring medical oncology consults, those with prolonged S-PORT had longer waiting times until consultation (58 vs 38 days; P = 0.02). Multivariate analysis showed independent predictors of prolonged DTI: time to preoperative imaging; and prolonged S-PORT: time to pathology report, time to maxillofacial consult, and time to medical oncology consult. CONCLUSIONS Strategies targeting these organizational bottlenecks may be effective for shortening treatment time intervals, hence representing potential opportunities for improving oncological outcomes in OCSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Dayan
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Houda Bahig
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radio-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bernard Fortin
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radio-Oncology, Hopital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Édith Filion
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radio-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Phuc-Felix Nguyen-Tan
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radio-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Brian O'Sullivan
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radio-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Danielle Charpentier
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Denis Soulières
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olga Gologan
- Department of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kristoff Nelson
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Laurent Létourneau
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Division of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Matthieu Schmittbuhl
- Department of Stomatology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tareck Ayad
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric Bissada
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis Guertin
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul Tabet
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Apostolos Christopoulos
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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9
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Graboyes EM, Chappell M, Duckett KA, Sterba K, Halbert CH, Hill EG, Chera B, McCay J, Puram SV, Ramadan S, Sandulache VC, Kahmke R, Nussenbaum B, Alberg AJ, Paskett ED, Calhoun E. Patient Navigation for Timely, Guideline-Adherent Adjuvant Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer: A National Landscape Analysis. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2023; 21:1251-1259.e5. [PMID: 38081134 PMCID: PMC10846494 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2023.7061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aligned with the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology for Head and Neck Cancers, in November 2021 the Commission on Cancer approved initiation of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) within 6 weeks of surgery for head and neck cancer (HNC) as its first and only HNC quality metric. Unfortunately, >50% of patients do not commence PORT within 6 weeks, and delays disproportionately burden racial and ethnic minority groups. Although patient navigation (PN) is a potential strategy to improve the delivery of timely, equitable, guideline-adherent PORT, the national landscape of PN for this aspect of care is unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS From September through November 2022, we conducted a survey of health care organizations that participate in the American Cancer Society National Navigation Roundtable to understand the scope of PN for delivering timely, guideline-adherent PORT for patients with HNC. RESULTS Of the 94 institutions that completed the survey, 89.4% (n=84) reported that at least part of their practice was dedicated to navigating patients with HNC. Sixty-eight percent of the institutions who reported navigating patients with HNC along the continuum (56/83) reported helping them begin PORT. One-third of HNC navigators (32.5%; 27/83) reported tracking the metric for time-to-PORT at their facility. When estimating the timeframe in which the NCCN and Commission on Cancer guidelines recommend commencing PORT, 44.0% (37/84) of HNC navigators correctly stated ≤6 weeks; 71.4% (60/84) reported that they did not know the frequency of delays starting PORT among patients with HNC nationally, and 63.1% (53/84) did not know the frequency of delays at their institution. CONCLUSIONS In this national landscape survey, we identified that PN is already widely used in clinical practice to help patients with HNC start timely, guideline-adherent PORT. To enhance and scale PN within this area and improve the quality and equity of HNC care delivery, organizations could focus on providing better education and support for their navigators as well as specialization in HNC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Michelle Chappell
- American Cancer Society National Navigation Roundtable, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kelsey A. Duckett
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Katherine Sterba
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Elizabeth G. Hill
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Bhishamjit Chera
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Jessica McCay
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Sidharth V. Puram
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Salma Ramadan
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Vlad C. Sandulache
- Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
- ENT Section, Operative Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Russel Kahmke
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Houston, Texas
| | - Anthony J. Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Electra D. Paskett
- Division of Population Sciences, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Division of Cancer Prevention Control, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Elizabeth Calhoun
- Department of Population Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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10
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Lorenz FJ, Mahase SS, Miccio J, King TS, Pradhan S, Goyal N. Update on adherence to guidelines for time to initiation of postoperative radiation for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Head Neck 2023; 45:1676-1691. [PMID: 37102787 PMCID: PMC10797635 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A prior study reported that over half of patients with HNSCC initiated PORT after 6 weeks from surgery during 2006-2014. In 2022, the CoC released a quality metric for patients to initiate PORT within 6 weeks. This study provides an update on time to PORT in recent years. METHODS The NCDB and TriNetX Research Network were queried to identify patients with HNSCC who received PORT during 2015-2019 and 2015-2021, respectively. Treatment delay was defined as initiating PORT beyond 6 weeks after surgery. RESULTS In NCDB, PORT was delayed for 62% of patients. Predictors of delay included age >50, female sex, black race, nonprivate insurance/uninsured status, lower education, oral cavity site, negative surgical margins, increased postoperative length of stay, unplanned hospital readmissions, IMRT radiation modality, treatment at an academic hospital or in the Northeast, and surgery and radiation at different facilities. In TriNetX, 64% experienced treatment delay. Additional associations with prolonged time to treatment included never married/divorced/widowed marital status, major surgery (neck dissection/free flaps/laryngectomy), and gastrostomy/tracheostomy dependence. CONCLUSIONS There continue to be challenges to timely initiation of PORT.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Jeffrey Lorenz
- College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sean S. Mahase
- College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Joseph Miccio
- College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tonya S. King
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sandeep Pradhan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Neerav Goyal
- College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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11
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Sawaf T, Virgen CG, Renslo B, Farrokhian N, Yu KM, Somani SN, Bur AM, Kakarala K, Shnayder Y, Gan GN, Graboyes EM, Sykes KJ. Association of Social-Ecological Factors With Delay in Time to Initiation of Postoperative Radiation Therapy: A Prospective Cohort Study. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2023; 149:477-484. [PMID: 37079327 PMCID: PMC10119772 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2023.0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Importance Timely initiation of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) is associated with reduced recurrence rates and improved overall survival in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Measurement of the association of social-ecological variables with PORT delays is lacking. Objective To assess individual and community-level factors associated with PORT delay among patients with HNSCC. Design, Setting, and Participants This prospective cohort study carried out between September 2018 and June 2022 included adults with untreated HNSCC who were enrolled in a prospective registry at a single academic tertiary medical center. Demographic information and validated self-reported measures of health literacy were obtained at baseline visits. Clinical data were recorded, and participant addresses were used to calculate the area deprivation index (ADI), a measure of community-level social vulnerability. Participants receiving primary surgery and PORT were analyzed. Univariable and multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for PORT delays. Exposures Surgical treatment and PORT. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was PORT initiation delay (>42 days from surgery). Risk of PORT initiation delay was evaluated using individual-level (demographic, health literacy, and clinical data) and community-level information (ADI and rural-urban continuum codes). Results Of 171 patients, 104 patients (60.8%) had PORT delays. Mean (SD) age of participants was 61.0 (11.2) years, 161 were White (94.2%), and 105 were men (61.4%). Insurance was employer-based or public among 65 (38.5%) and 75 (44.4%) participants, respectively. Mean (SD) ADI (national percentile) was 60.2 (24.4), and 71 (41.8%) resided in rural communities. Tumor sites were most commonly oral cavity (123 [71.9%]), with 108 (63.5%) classified as stage 4 at presentation. On multivariable analysis, a model incorporating individual-level factors with health literacy in addition to community-level factors was most predictive of PORT delay (AOC= 0.78; R2, 0.18). Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study provides a more comprehensive assessment of predictors of PORT delays that include health literacy and community-level measures. Predictive models that incorporate multilevel measures outperform models with individual-level factors alone and may guide precise interventions to decrease PORT delay for at-risk patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuleen Sawaf
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Celina G. Virgen
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Bryan Renslo
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Nathan Farrokhian
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Katherine M. Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Shaan N. Somani
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Andrés M. Bur
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Kiran Kakarala
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Yelizaveta Shnayder
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Gregory N. Gan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
| | - Evan M. Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Kevin J. Sykes
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City
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12
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Marwah R, Goonetilleke D, Smith J, Chilkuri M. Evaluating delays in patients treated with post-operative radiation therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:840-846. [PMID: 35726770 PMCID: PMC9544161 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Delays in commencing post-operative radiation therapy (PORT) and prolongation of overall treatment times (OTT) are associated with reduced overall survival and higher recurrence rates in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The objective of this study was to evaluate treatment delays, factors contributing to those delays and to explore strategies to mitigate them. METHODS This retrospective study included patients with mucosal HNSCC at Townsville University Hospital treated with curative intent surgery and PORT between June 2011 and June 2019. The proportion of patients who experienced delays in commencing PORT (>6 weeks) and OTT were evaluated and reasons for these delays were explored. RESULTS The study included 94 patients of which 70% experienced PORT delay. Surgery at an external facility (81% vs 56%, P = 0.006) and longer post-operative length of stay (P = 0.011) were significantly associated with a higher incidence of PORT delay. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients had a higher rate of PORT delay (89% vs 68.2%, P = 0.198). Significant delays were noted from time of surgery to radiation oncology (RO) consult and from RO consult to commencement of radiation treatment. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that the prevalence of PORT delay for patients with HNSCC remains high with room for improvement. Potential strategies to improve delays include developing effective care coordination, addressing specific needs of Indigenous patients, implementing reliable automated tracking and communication systems between teams and harnessing existing electronic referral systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Marwah
- Townsville University HospitalTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | | | - Justin Smith
- Townsville University HospitalTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
- James Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
| | - Madhavi Chilkuri
- Townsville University HospitalTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
- James Cook UniversityTownsvilleQueenslandAustralia
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13
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The Long Noncoding Transcript HNSCAT1 Activates KRT80 and Triggers Therapeutic Efficacy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:4156966. [PMID: 35965679 PMCID: PMC9371835 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4156966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSC) is the most prevalent malignancy of the head and neck regions. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are vital in tumorigenesis regulation. However, the role of lncRNAs in HNSC requires further exploration. Herein, through bioinformatic assays using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets, rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) assays, and RNA-FISH, we revealed that a novel cytoplasmic transcript, HNSC-associated transcript 1 (HNSCAT1, previously recognized as linc01269), was downregulated in tumor samples and advanced tumor stages and was also associated with favorable outcomes in HNSC. Overexpression of HNSCAT1 triggered treatment efficacy in HNSCs both in vivo and in vitro. More importantly, through high-throughput transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq, in NODE database, OEZ007550), we identified KRT80, a tumor suppressor in HNSC, as the target of HNSCAT1. KRT80 expression was modulated by lncRNA HNSCAT1 and presented a positive correlation in tumor samples (R = 0.52, p < 0.001). Intriguingly, we identified that miR-1245 simultaneously interacts with KRT80 and HNSCAT1, which bridges the regulatory function between KRT80 and HNSCAT1. Conclusively, our study demonstrated that lncRNA HNSCAT1 functions as a necessary tumor inhibitor in HNSC, which provides a novel mechanism of lncRNA function and provides alternative targets for the diagnosis and treatment of HNSC.
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14
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Noyes EA, Burks CA, Larson AR, Deschler DG. An equity-based narrative review of barriers to timely postoperative radiation therapy for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2021; 6:1358-1366. [PMID: 34938875 PMCID: PMC8665479 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The majority of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) do not commence postoperative radiation treatment (PORT) within the recommended 6 weeks. We explore how delayed PORT affects survival outcomes, what factors are associated with delayed PORT initiation, and what interventions exist to reduce delays in PORT initiation. METHODS We conducted a PubMed search to identify articles discussing timely PORT for HNSCC. We performed a narrative review to assess survival outcomes of delayed PORT as well as social determinants of health (SDOH) and clinical factors associated with delayed PORT, using the PROGRESS-Plus health equity framework to guide our analysis. We reviewed interventions designed to reduce delays in PORT. RESULTS Delayed PORT is associated with reduced overall survival. Delays in PORT disproportionately burden patients of racial/ethnic minority backgrounds, Medicaid or no insurance, low socioeconomic status, limited access to care, more comorbidities, presentation at advanced stages, and those who experience postoperative complications. Delays in PORT initiation tend to occur during transitions in head and neck cancer care. Delays in PORT may be reduced by interventions that identify patients who are most likely to experience delayed PORT, support patients according to their specific needs and barriers to care, and streamline care and referral processes. CONCLUSIONS Both SDOH and clinical factors are associated with delays in timely PORT. Structural change is needed to reduce health disparities and promote equitable access to care for all. When planning care, providers must consider not only biological factors but also SDOH to maximize care outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ciersten A. Burks
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and EarHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Andrew R. Larson
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and EarHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Daniel G. Deschler
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and EarHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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15
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Graboyes EM, Sterba KR, Li H, Warren GW, Alberg AJ, Calhoun EA, Nussenbaum B, McCay J, Marsh CH, Osazuwa-Peters N, Neskey DM, Kaczmar JM, Sharma AK, Harper J, Day TA, Hughes-Halbert C. Development and Evaluation of a Navigation-Based, Multilevel Intervention to Improve the Delivery of Timely, Guideline-Adherent Adjuvant Therapy for Patients With Head and Neck Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e1512-e1523. [PMID: 33689399 PMCID: PMC8791819 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE More than half of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) experience a delay initiating guideline-adherent postoperative radiation therapy (PORT), contributing to excess mortality and racial disparities in survival. However, interventions to improve the delivery of timely, equitable PORT among patients with HNSCC are lacking. This study (1) describes the development of NDURE (Navigation for Disparities and Untimely Radiation thErapy), a navigation-based multilevel intervention (MLI) to improve guideline-adherent PORT and (2) evaluates its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy. METHODS NDURE was developed using the six steps of intervention mapping (IM). Subsequently, NDURE was evaluated by enrolling consecutive patients with locally advanced HNSCC undergoing surgery and PORT (n = 15) into a single-arm clinical trial with a mixed-methods approach to process evaluation. RESULTS NDURE is a navigation-based MLI targeting barriers to timely, guideline-adherent PORT at the patient, healthcare team, and organizational levels. NDURE is delivered via three in-person navigation sessions anchored to case identification and surgical care transitions. Intervention components include the following: (1) patient education, (2) travel support, (3) a standardized process for initiating the discussion of expectations for PORT, (4) PORT care plans, (5) referral tracking and follow-up, and (6) organizational restructuring. NDURE was feasible, as judged by accrual (88% of eligible patients [100% Blacks] enrolled) and dropout (n = 0). One hundred percent of patients reported moderate or strong agreement that NDURE helped solve challenges starting PORT; 86% were highly likely to recommend NDURE. The rate of timely, guideline-adherent PORT was 86% overall and 100% for Black patients. CONCLUSION NDURE is a navigation-based MLI that is feasible, is acceptable, and has the potential to improve the timely, equitable, guideline-adherent PORT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Evan M. Graboyes, MD, MPH, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Rutledge Ave, MSC 550, Charleston, SC 29425; e-mail:
| | - Katherine R. Sterba
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Hong Li
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Graham W. Warren
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Anthony J. Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | | | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Jessica McCay
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Courtney H. Marsh
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - David M. Neskey
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - John M. Kaczmar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Anand K. Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Jennifer Harper
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Terry A. Day
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Chanita Hughes-Halbert
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
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16
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Ponduri A, Liao DZ, Schlecht NF, Rosenblatt G, Prystowsky MB, Kabarriti R, Garg M, Ow TJ, Schiff BA, Smith RV, Mehta V. Impact of Nonadherence to NCCN Adjuvant Radiotherapy Initiation Guidelines in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma in an Underserved Urban Population. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2021; 19:1-7. [PMID: 34555804 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2021.7007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonadherence to NCCN Guidelines during time from surgery to postoperative radiotherapy (S-PORT) can alter survival outcomes in head and neck squamous cell carcinomna (HNSCC). There is a need to validate this impact in an underserved urban population and to understand risk factors and reasons for delay. We sought to investigate the impact of delayed PORT with outcomes of overall survival (OS) in HNSCC, to analyze predictive factors of delayed PORT, and to identify reasons for delay. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study in an urban, community-based academic center. A total of 184 patients with primary HNSCC were identified through the Montefiore Medical Center cancer registry who had been treated between March 1, 2005, and March 8, 2017, and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The primary exposure was S-PORT. OS, recurrence, and risk factors and reasons for treatment delay were the main outcomes and measures. RESULTS Among 184 patients with HNSCC treated with PORT, the median S-PORT was 48.5 days (interquartile range, 41-67 days). The S-PORT threshold that optimally differentiated worse OS outcomes was >50 days (46.7% of our cohort; n=86). Independent of other relevant factors, patients with HNSCC and S-PORT >50 days had worse OS (hazard ratio, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.34-3.95) and greater recurrence (odds ratio, 3.51; 95% CI, 1.31-9.39). Predictors of delayed S-PORT included being underweight or obese, prolonged postoperative length of stay, and age >70 years. The most frequent reasons for PORT delay were complications related to surgery (22.09%), unrelated medical comorbidities (18.60%), and nonadherence/missed appointments (6.98%). CONCLUSIONS Delayed PORT beyond 50 days after surgery was associated with decreased OS and greater recurrence. Identification of predictive factors and reasons for treatment delay helps to target at-risk patients and facilitates interventions in underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nicolas F Schlecht
- 2Department of Pathology, and
- 3Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx
- 4Department of Cancer Prevention & Control, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo
| | | | | | - Rafi Kabarriti
- 5Department of Radiation Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx; and
| | - Madhur Garg
- 5Department of Radiation Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx; and
| | - Thomas J Ow
- 2Department of Pathology, and
- 6Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Bradley A Schiff
- 6Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Richard V Smith
- 6Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Vikas Mehta
- 6Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
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17
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Graboyes EM, Halbert CH, Li H, Warren GW, Alberg AJ, Calhoun EA, Nussenbaum B, Marsh CH, McCay J, Day TA, Kaczmar JM, Sharma AK, Neskey DM, Sterba KR. Barriers to the Delivery of Timely, Guideline-Adherent Adjuvant Therapy Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 16:e1417-e1432. [PMID: 32853120 PMCID: PMC7735037 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Delays initiating guideline-adherent postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are common, contribute to excess mortality, and are a modifiable target for improving survival. However, the barriers that prevent the delivery of timely, guideline-adherent PORT remain unknown. This study aims to identify the multilevel barriers to timely, guideline-adherent PORT and organize them into a conceptual model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews with key informants were conducted with a purposive sample of patients with HNSCC and oncology providers across diverse practice settings until thematic saturation (n = 45). Thematic analysis was performed to identify the themes that explain barriers to timely PORT and to develop a conceptual model. RESULTS In all, 27 patients with HNSCC undergoing surgery and PORT were included, of whom 41% were African American, and 37% had surgery and PORT at different facilities. Eighteen clinicians representing a diverse mix of provider types from 7 oncology practices participated in key informant interviews. Five key themes representing barriers to timely PORT were identified across 5 health care delivery levels: (1) inadequate education about timely PORT, (2) postsurgical sequelae that interrupt the tight treatment timeline (both intrapersonal level), (3) insufficient coordination and communication during care transitions (interpersonal and health care team levels), (4) fragmentation of care across health care organizations (organizational level), and (5) travel burden for socioeconomically disadvantaged patients (community level). CONCLUSION This study provides a novel description of the multilevel barriers that contribute to delayed PORT. Interventions targeting these multilevel barriers could improve the delivery of timely, guideline-adherent PORT and decrease mortality for patients with HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M. Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Hong Li
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Graham W. Warren
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Anthony J. Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | - Elizabeth A. Calhoun
- Center for Population Science and Discovery, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ
| | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Houston, TX
| | - Courtney H. Marsh
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Jessica McCay
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Terry A. Day
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - John M. Kaczmar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Anand K. Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - David M. Neskey
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Katherine R. Sterba
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
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18
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Boukovalas S, Goepfert RP, Smith JM, Mecham E, Liu J, Zafereo ME, Chang EI, Hessel AC, Hanasono MM, Gross ND, Yu P, Lewin JS, Lewis CM, Diaz EM, Weber RS, Myers JN, Offodile AC. Association between postoperative complications and long-term oncologic outcomes following total laryngectomy: 10-year experience at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Cancer 2020; 126:4905-4916. [PMID: 32931057 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative complications are an independent predictor of poor survival across several tumors. However, there is limited literature on the association between postoperative morbidity and long-term survival following total laryngectomy (TL) for cancer. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of all TL patients at a single institution from 2008 to 2013. Demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed, including postsurgical outcomes, which were classified using the Clavien-Dindo system. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). RESULTS A total of 362 patients were identified. The mean age was 64 years, and the majority of patients were male (81%). The median follow-up interval was 21 months. Fifty-seven percent of patients had received preoperative radiation, and 40% had received preoperative chemotherapy. Fifty-seven percent of patients underwent salvage TL, and 60% underwent advanced reconstruction (45% free flap and 15% pedicled flap). A total of 136 patients (37.6%) developed postoperative complications, 92 (25.4%) of which were major. Multivariable modeling demonstrated that postoperative complications independently predicted shorter OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.50; 95% CI, 1.16-1.96; P = .002) and DFS (HR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.05-1.76; P = .021). Other independent negative predictors of OS and DFS included positive lymph node status, preoperative chemotherapy, comorbidity grade, and delayed adjuvant therapy. Severity of complication and reason for TL (salvage vs primary) were not shown to be predictive of OS or DFS. CONCLUSION Postoperative complications are associated with worse long-term OS and DFS relative to uncomplicated cases. Patient optimization and timely management of postoperative complications may play a critical role in long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Boukovalas
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ryan P Goepfert
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - J Michael Smith
- Division of Plastic Surgery, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | | | - Jun Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Mark E Zafereo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Edward I Chang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Amy C Hessel
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Matthew M Hanasono
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Neil D Gross
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Peirong Yu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jan S Lewin
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Carol M Lewis
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Eduardo M Diaz
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Randal S Weber
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey N Myers
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Anaeze C Offodile
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Institute for Cancer Care Innovation, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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19
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Sykes KJ, Morrow E, Smith JB, Holcomb AJ, TenNapel M, Lominska CE, Bur AM, Kakarala K. What is the hold up?—Mixed‐methods analysis of postoperative radiotherapy delay in head and neck cancer. Head Neck 2020; 42:2948-2957. [DOI: 10.1002/hed.26355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. Sykes
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
| | - Emily Morrow
- Department of Sociology University of Kansas Lawrence Kansas USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Public Services Kansas City Kansas Community College Kansas City Kansas USA
| | - Joshua B. Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
| | - Andrew J. Holcomb
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
| | - Mindi TenNapel
- Department of Radiation Oncology University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
| | | | - Andrés M. Bur
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
| | - Kiran Kakarala
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
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20
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Levy DA, Li H, Sterba KR, Hughes-Halbert C, Warren GW, Nussenbaum B, Alberg AJ, Day TA, Graboyes EM. Development and Validation of Nomograms for Predicting Delayed Postoperative Radiotherapy Initiation in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2020; 146:455-464. [PMID: 32239201 PMCID: PMC7118672 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2020.0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Importance The standard of care for initiation of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is within 6 weeks of surgical treatment. Delays in guideline-adherent PORT initiation are common, associated with mortality, and a measure of quality care, but patient-specific tools to estimate the risk of these delays are lacking. Objective To develop and validate 2 nomograms (that use presurgical and postsurgical data) for predicting delayed PORT initiation. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study obtained patient data from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2015, from the National Cancer Database. Adults aged 18 years or older with a newly diagnosed HNSCC who underwent surgical treatment and PORT at a Commission on Cancer-accredited facility were included. Data analysis was conducted from June 2, 2019, to January 29, 2020. Exposures Surgical treatment and PORT. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure was PORT initiation more than 6 weeks after the surgical intervention. Multivariable logistic regression models were created in a random selection of 80% of the sample (derivation cohort) and were internally validated with bootstrapping, assessed for discrimination by calibration plots and the concordance (C) index, and externally validated in the remaining 20% of the sample (validation cohort). Results The study included 60 766 adults with HNSCC who were grouped into derivation and validation cohorts. The derivation cohort comprised 48 625 patients (mean [SD] age, 59.59 [11.3] years; 36 825 men [75.7%]) selected randomly from the full sample, whereas 12 151 patients (mean [SD] age, 59.63 [11.2] years; 9266 men [76.3%]) composed the validation cohort. The rate of PORT delay was 55.8% (n=27140) in the derivation cohort and 56.7% (n=6900) in the validation cohort. Both nomograms created to predict the risk of PORT initiation delay used variables, including race/ethnicity, insurance type, tumor site, and facility type. The nomogram based on presurgical variables included clinical stage and severity of comorbidity, whereas the nomogram with postsurgical variables included US region, length of stay, and care fragmentation between surgical and radiotherapy facilities. For the presurgical nomogram, the concordance indices were 0.670 (95% CI, 0.664-0.676) in the derivation cohort and 0.674 (95% CI, 0.662-0.685) in the validation cohort. For the nomogram with postsurgical variables, the concordance indices were 0.691 (95% CI, 0.686-0.696) in the derivation cohort and 0.694 (95% CI, 0.685-0.704) in the validation cohort. Conclusions and Relevance This study found that a nomogram developed with presurgical data to generate personalized estimates of PORT initiation delay may improve pretreatment counseling and the delivery of interventions to patients at high risk for such a delay. A nomogram including postsurgical data can drive institutional quality improvement initiatives and enhance risk-adjusted comparisons of delay rates across facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan A Levy
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Katherine R Sterba
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Chanita Hughes-Halbert
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Graham W Warren
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Brian Nussenbaum
- American Board of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Houston, Texas
| | - Anthony J Alberg
- Arnold School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Terry A Day
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Evan M Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
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