1 Guidance

Guidance

1.1 Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of interstitial photodynamic therapy (PDT) for malignant parotid tumours is inadequate in quantity. Therefore this procedure should only be used with special arrangements for clinical governance, consent and audit or research.

1.2 Clinicians wishing to undertake interstitial PDT for malignant parotid tumours should take the following actions.

Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts.
Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedure's safety and efficacy, and provide them with clear written information. In addition, the use of the Institute's information for patients ('Understanding NICE guidance') is recommended.
Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having interstitial PDT for parotid malignancies (see section 3.1).

1.3 Further publication of safety and efficacy outcomes will be useful. The Institute may review the procedure upon publication of further evidence.