Practices and Impressions of Head and Neck Cancer Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards Findings From an American Head and Neck Society Survey.

Abstract

Multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTBs) are widely accepted as vehicles for improving care, yet limited data describe their structure and practice for head and neck cancers. A cross-sectional survey was distributed internationally with approval from the American Head and Neck Society. Survey items assessed MDTB structure, participation, workflow, and perceived impact. A total of 279 responses were analyzed, predominantly from head and neck surgeons (78%). Compared with international MDTBs, US-based MDTBs were more likely to meet weekly (94% vs. 86%; p = 0.039) and to be surgeon-led (84% vs. 56%; p < 0.001). International MDTBs more frequently documented recommendations (83% vs. 66%; p < 0.001). By specialty, management of discrepancies differed (p = 0.009); surgeons and radiation oncologists more often reported a lack of consensus, while medical oncologists favored offline discussion. The structure and impressions of head and neck cancer MDTBs vary considerably, offering opportunities for their improvement.