High‐dose‐rate remote brachytherapy for metachronous second primary carcinoma of soft palate by iridium 192 isotope in an afterload surface mold

Abstract

Conservative management of metachronous second primary carcinoma of head and neck is preferred in order to preserve form and function. The purpose of the case report is to describe the treatment of metachronous second primary carcinoma of soft palate by high-dose-rate, remote, afterload brachytherapy. The brachytherapy was done in remote settings by afterloading Iridium 192 isotope carried through a custom fabricated surface mold. The mold enabled good adaptation, stability, and repeatable positioning of the radiation source at each treatment session of fractionated brachytherapy offering consistent dosimetric advantage through a single dosimetry calculation. Collaborative efforts of radiation oncologist and prosthodontist ensured conservative treatment in outpatient set up with minimal adverse effects.