Multivariate analysis of prognostic factors for salvage nasopharyngectomy via the maxillary swing approach.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic factors for salvage nasopharyngectomy. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted on maxillary swing nasopharyngectomy performed between 1998 and 2010. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified prognostic factors affecting actuarial local tumor control and overall survival. RESULTS The median follow-up duration was 52 months. Among the 268 patients, 79.1% had clear resection margins. The 5-year actuarial local tumor control and overall survival was 74% and 62.1%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, tumor size, resection margin status, and gross tumor in the sphenoid sinus were independent prognostic factors for local tumor control. For overall survival, resection margin status, synchronous cervical nodal recurrence, and cavernous sinus invasion had a negative influence on overall survival after surgery. CONCLUSION Extent of nasopharyngectomy should be tailored to the individual tumor to achieve clear resection margins. Cavernous sinus invasion is associated with poor survival outcome, and detailed counseling and meticulous surgical planning is crucial in such circumstances.