Preoperative radiochemotherapy and radical resection for stages II to IV oral and oropharyngeal cancer: grade of regression as crucial prognostic factor

In the neoadjuvant multimodal therapy concept, histological response to preoperative RCT is a crucial prognostic factor even when surgical R0-resection is accomplished. Thus, non-responders have to be regarded as high-risk patients for recurrence and may benefit from further therapy.