A study of the late effects of radiotherapy and operation on patients with maxillary cancer. A survey more than 10 years after initial treatment.

One hundred seventy-one maxillary carcinoma patients who survived more than 10 years after initial treatment were surveyed. Performance status was unrestricted in 35.1% of the patients, slightly restricted in 34.5%, moderately restricted in 21.1%, restricted in 7.0%, and very restricted in 2.3%. Radiation-induced cataracts on the affected side occurred in 100% of the patients treated with radiation. Good visual acuity was maintained in only 65.8% of the patients, even on the contralateral side. Fifty-five percent of the patients retained symmetric facial animation due to our policy of conservative therapy. Restricted mouth opening occurred in 32.2% of the patients, taking liquid diet in 21.1%, and middle ear effusion in 26.3%, which were closely linked to maxillectomy operation. This study suggests that avoiding excess radiation dosage, strict control of radiation field, adaption of two portals with 60 grades wedge pair filter, use of appropriate protectors, limiting removal at the maxillactomy, and postoperative care for trismus or tympanic effusion are necessary.