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

BACKGROUND: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSIONS: The structure and impressions of head and neck cancer MDTBs vary considerably, offering opportunities for their improvement.