National Protocol for Model-Based Selection for Proton Therapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Johannes A. Langendijk, Frank Hoebers, Martin A. de Jong, Patricia Doornaert, Chris H.J. Terhaard, Roel J.H.M. Steenbakkers, Olga Hamming‐Vrieze, Jeroen B. van de Kamer, Wilko F.A.R. Verbakel, Fatma Keskin-Cambay, Johannes B. Reitsma, A. van der Schaaf, Liesbeth Boersma, Ewoud Schuit
Abstract
In the Netherlands, the model-based approach is used to identify patients with head and neck cancer who may benefit most from proton therapy in terms of prevention of late radiation-induced side effects in comparison with photon therapy. To this purpose, a National Indication Protocol Proton therapy for Head and Neck Cancer patients (NIPP-HNC) was developed, which has been approved by the health care authorities. When patients qualify according to the guidelines of the NIPP-HNC, proton therapy is fully reimbursed. This article describes the procedures that were followed to develop this NIPP-HNC and provides all necessary information to introduce model-based selection for patients with head and neck cancer into routine clinical practice.