The TORPEdO trial is a phase 3 randomized controlled trial that compared proton beam therapy (IMPT) with intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in oropharyngeal cancer. IMPT and IMRT showed similar late physical quality of life scores. Both methods had the same degree of dependence on the gastrostomy tube. Local tumor control was comparable for both therapies. Overall patient survival was similar for both IMPT and IMRT. In medical settings where IMPT is not routinely used for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, IMRT remains the standard of care.