I received a dose of 60gy to the left neck lymph nodes, probably 50-60gy to the right neck, and 70gy to the primary (left tonsil and base of tongue). I was part of a clinical trial on dose deescalation based on a lack of hypoxia in the tumor.

My RO stated that with a lower dose of radiation I would have a less chance or severity of trismus, xerostomia, and risk of late onset effects such as osteoradionecrosis among other effects. I dont believe the difference between 60gy and 70gy has been quantified yet with respect to quality of life.

My RO told me that some docs do 60gy on the neck with a neck dissection as standard of care. She usually does 70gy on the neck, but without a neck dissection. I'd ask if the 60gy is to the neck or to the primary as well. My doc was not comfortable deescalating the dosage to the primary cancer location as part of her clinical trial for any patients.