Fast neutrons in the treatment of salivary gland tumors

Fast neutrons were used in the management of 30 patients with advanced salivary gland tumors. Twenty-two patients are the subject of this analysis. Neutrons were used as the primary mode of management in only seven patients. The remaining patients either had recurrent disease after surgery and/or radiation, or received post-operative treatment with neutrons. After a minimum follow-up of one year, 66% of the patients are alive with no evidence of disease. Control in the treatment volume is as high as 72%, which suggests a significant improvement in the local control of advanced salivary gland tumors. However, longer periods of observation are necessary for more definitive conclusions.