Postoperative Accelerated RadioTherapy versus conventional radiotherapy in squamous cell head and neck cancer (POPART). A phase III randomised study.

1. Proper clinical evaluation must have been performed according to the national guidelines;

2. Histologically proven squamous cell carcinoma (WHO grade 1-3) of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx or larynx (unknown primary excluded);

3. Primary surgery with curative intent
high risk for loco-regional recurrence, i.e. positive resection margins (< 1 mm) and/or lymph node metastases with extranodal spread;

4. Radiotherapy must start preferentially within 6 weeks but not later than 7 weeks after surgery;

5. Previously untreated patients (except the surgery);

6. Age > 18 years;

7. WHO performance status 0-2
patients of reproductive potential must agree to practice an effective contraceptive method;

8. Written informed consent.

1. Macroscopic residual disease at the primary site and/or neck;

2. Distant metastases;

3. Previous malignancy except basal cell carcinoma of the skin or in situ carcinoma of the cervix or superficial bladder cancer (pTa);

4. Previous induction chemotherapy, concurrent or adjuvant chemotherapy.
pregnant or lactating;

5. Any psychological, familial, sociological or geographical condition potentially hampering compliance with the study protocol and follow-up schedule.