Vascular events in patients with head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

ObjectiveTo assess the incidence of vascular events in patients with head and neck cancer.Review MethodsPrimary studies identified through April 2023. Meta‐analysis was performed.ResultsThere were 146 studies included in the systematic review. Rates of events were collected in the overall group, those with chemoprophylaxis, and those that underwent surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Of 1 184 160 patients, 4.3% had a vascular event. Radiation therapy had highest risk of overall events and stroke when compared to surgery and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy had a higher risk of stroke and overall events when compared to surgery.ConclusionsVascular events occur in 4%–5% of patients with head and neck cancer. Our data does not support the use of routine anticoagulation. Patients undergoing radiation therapy had the highest frequency of events.