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Permanent unilateral hearing loss after radiotherapy for parotid gland tumors
Author(s) -
van der Putten Lisa,
de Bree Remco,
Plukker John T.,
Langendijk Johannes A.,
Smits Cas,
Burlage Fred R.,
Leemans C. René
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.20426
Subject(s) - parotid gland , medicine , radiation therapy , hearing loss , unilateral hearing loss , audiology , radiology , pathology
Abstract Background. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the long‐term effects of radiotherapy on hearing function in patients who underwent parotidectomy and postoperative radiotherapy for unilateral tumors of the parotid gland. Methods. An extensive set of tests was used to measure hearing loss. The mean dose on middle ear, cochlea, and Eustachian tube was estimated with a CT‐planning system. Results. A hearing loss of ≥ 15 dB in 3 frequencies was found in 32% of the 52 patients included in the study. Patients with an asymmetrical hearing loss received a higher mean dose on the hearing structures ( p < .002). The threshold dose for clinically relevant hearing loss was found at 50 Gy on the cochlea and Eustachian tube. Conclusions. Radiation‐induced hearing loss is a common complication. A mean dose of > 50 Gy on the cochlea should be avoided. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2006