Neck Dissection (neck + dissection)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences

Kinds of Neck Dissection

  • central neck dissection
  • elective neck dissection
  • radical neck dissection
  • salvage neck dissection
  • selective neck dissection
  • therapeutic neck dissection

  • Terms modified by Neck Dissection

  • neck dissection specimen

  • Selected Abstracts


    High-Risk Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma without Palpable Lymphadenopathy: Is There a Therapeutic Role for Elective Neck Dissection?

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2007
    JUAN-CARLOS MARTINEZ MD
    PURPOSE The beneficial role of elective neck dissection (END) in the management of high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) of the head and neck remains unproven. Some surgical specialists suggest that END may be beneficial for patients with clinically node-negative (N0) high-risk CSCC, but there are few data to support this claim. We reviewed the available literature regarding the use of END in the management of both CSCC and head and neck SCC (HNSCC). METHODOLOGY The available medical literature pertaining to END in both CSCC and HNSCC was reviewed using PubMed and Ovid Medline searches. RESULTS Many surgical specialists recommend that END be routinely performed in patients with N0 HNSCC when the risk of occult metastases is estimated to exceed 20%; however, patients who undergo END have no proven survival benefit over those who are initially staged as N0 and undergo therapeutic neck dissection (TND) after the development of apparent regional disease. There is a lack of data regarding the proper management of regional nodal basins in patients with N0 CSCC. In the absence of evidence-based data, the cutaneous surgeon must rely on clinical judgment to guide the management of patients with N0 high-risk CSCC of the head and neck. CONCLUSIONS Appropriate work-up for occult nodal disease may occasionally be warranted in patients with high-risk CSCC. END may play a role in only a very limited number of patients with high-risk CSCC. [source]


    Is Radical Neck Dissection a Current Option for Neck Disease?

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 10 2008
    Alfio Ferlito MD
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    Planned Postradiotherapy Neck Dissection: Rationale and Clinical Outcomes

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 1 2007
    Gregory K. Sewall MD
    Abstract Objectives: In this study, we examine pathology results and clinical outcome for patients with locoregionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) who present with advanced neck disease and undergo planned postradiotherapy neck dissection. Study Design: Review of all patients with SCCHN treated with primary radiation (or chemoradiation) and postradiotherapy neck dissection at the University of Wisconsin between 1992 to 2005 was performed. One hundred seven neck dissections were identified in 93 patients, 79 unilateral and 14 bilateral. All major treatment and outcome parameters were examined with particular emphasis on the postradiotherapy neck dissection. Results: Thirty of 107 neck dissection specimens (28%) showed evidence of residual carcinoma on pathologic review. The mean number of lymph nodes identified at neck dissection for the entire cohort was 21 per specimen (range, 1,60) with 1.3 nodes per positive neck dissection demonstrating residual carcinoma. No correlation was found between the type of neck dissection performed and the presence of residual nodal disease. Eighty-two evaluated patients (93%) remain free of regional disease recurrence, whereas six patients have subsequently manifested neck recurrence. Four of the six patients who developed regional recurrence showed residual carcinoma in their neck dissection specimen. Five of these patients underwent comprehensive neck dissection (levels I,V); one underwent selective neck dissection (neck dissection. The majority of these cases showed microscopic residual carcinoma in a single lymph node. Although in the early postradiotherapy setting, we cannot accurately predict the viability and growth potential of microscopic residual carcinoma in lymph nodes, these findings, combined with the modest overall morbidity of selective neck dissection, suggest that planned postradiotherapy neck dissection should be strongly considered for patients presenting with advanced neck disease. This remains a prevailing clinical practice at our institution. [source]


    Safety of Modified Radical Neck Dissection for Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma,

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 3 2004
    Michael E. Kupferman MD
    Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis The management of cervical metastases from differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) remains controversial. Most surgeons perform a neck dissection (ND) for clinically apparent disease. The extent of nodal dissection varies from regional to comprehensive. Morbidity from ND in the setting of DTC remains high, particularly when performed in the setting of a thyroidectomy (TT). To determine complications from ND for DTC, we retrospectively reviewed our surgical experience of modified radical neck dissection for nodal metastases. Study Design Retrospective chart review. Methods Between 1997 and 2002, 39 consecutive patients (31 females and 8 males) underwent 44 comprehensive NDs of levels II,V for DTC. Central compartment dissection (CCD) (levels VI and VII) was also performed during 23 of these procedures. Twenty (45.5%) patients had prior treatment elsewhere. Preoperative pathology revealed papillary carcinoma in 22 patients (56.4%), tall cell variant in 11 (28.2%), and follicular variant in 6 (15.4%). Results Ten patients (20%) underwent ND alone, whereas 6 (14%) underwent simultaneous ND and TT. Fifteen patients underwent simultaneous ND, TT, and CCD (30%). Temporary hypocalcemia occurred after 21% of NDs that were performed in the setting of either TT or CCD or both. There were no cases of permanent hypoparathyroidism. Transient regional lymph node (RLN) paresis occurred in two patients and was associated with a concomitant central compartment nodal dissection; there were no permanent RLN palsies. Transient spinal accessory nerve paresis developed after 27% of NDs performed. Two patients developed chyle leaks. Conclusions When ND is necessary for the treatment of thyroid malignancies, the procedure can be performed safely with acceptable morbidity. [source]


    Selective Neck Dissection in the Management of the Clinically Node-Negative Neck ,

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 12 2000
    A. Sefik Hosal MD
    Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficacy of the selective neck dissection (SND) in the management of the clinically node-negative neck. Study Design Case histories were evaluated retrospectively. Methods The results of 300 neck dissections performed on 210 patients were studied. Results The primary sites were oral cavity (91), oropharyn- (30), hypopharyn- (16), and laryn- (73). Seventy-one necks (23%) were node positive on pathological e-amination. The number of positive nodes varied from 1 to 9 per side. Of necks with positive nodes, 17 (24%) had e-tracapsular spread. The median follow-up was 41 months. Recurrent disease developed in the dissected neck of 11 patients (4%). Two recurrences developed outside the dissected field. The incidence of regional recurrences was similar in patients in whom nodes were negative on histological e-amination (3%) when compared with patients with positive nodes without e-tracapsular spread (4%). In contrast, regional recurrence developed in 18% of necks with e-tracapsular spread. This observation was statistically significant. Patients having more than two metastatic lymph nodes had a higher incidence of recurrent disease than the patients with carcinoma limited to one or two nodes. Recurrence rate in the pathologically node positive (pN+) necks was comparable to recurrence in those pathologically node negative (pN0) necks in the patients who did not have irradiation. Conclusion SND is effective for controlling neck disease and serves to detect patients who require adjuvant therapy. [source]


    External Beam Radiation Followed by Planned Neck Dissection and Brachytherapy for Base of Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma,

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 10 2000
    David M. Kaylie MD
    Abstract Background Surgical resection of tongue base cancer can leave the patient with significant functional deficits. Other therapies, such as external beam radiation followed by neck dissection and radiation implants, have shown equal tumor control with good functional outcome. Methods Between March 1991 and July 1999, 12 patients at Oregon Health Sciences University, the Portland Veterans Administration Medical Center and West Virginia University School of Medicine Hospital were treated with external beam radiation followed by neck dissection and Ir192 implants. Two patients had T1 disease, two had T2, five patients had T3 tumors, and three had T4 tumors. Six had N2a necks, three had N2b necks, and three had N2c. Follow-up ranged from 13 months to 8 years. Results After external beam radiation, five patients had complete response and seven had partial response in the neck without complications. One patient underwent a unilateral radical neck dissection, eight had unilateral selective neck dissections involving levels I to IV, and three had dissections involving levels I to III. One of the five patients who had a complete clinical response in the neck had pathologically positive nodes. One patient had a pulmonary embolus that was treated and had no permanent sequelae. There were three complications from brachytherapy. Two patients had soft tissue necrosis at the primary site and one patient had radionecrosis of the mandible. All healed without further therapy. One patient had persistent disease and underwent a partial glossectomy but died of local disease. Distant metastasis developed in two patients. All others show no evidence of disease and are able to eat a normal diet by mouth. Conclusion This combination of therapies should be considered when treating tongue base cancer. [source]


    Patency and Flow of the Internal Jugular Vein After Functional Neck Dissection,

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 1 2000
    Marķa P. Prim MD
    Abstract Objectives: To assess the patency and flow of the internal jugular vein after functional neck dissection. Study Design: Prospective study of 54 internal jugular veins in 29 oncologic patients undergoing functional neck dissection between September 1994 and February 1997. Methods: Patency, presence of thrombosis, characteristics of the vein wall, compressibility, area of the vein both in rest and during Valsalva maneuver, expiratory flow speed, Valsalva flow speed, jugular flow in each side, and total jugular flow were assessed in all veins before and after dissection. All patients were evaluated before and after the procedure by means of duplex Doppler ultrasonography. Results: In no case was there thrombosis before or after the operation. Although total jugular flow decreases during the early postoperative period, it recovers to normal parameters within 3 months after surgery. Conclusions: According to these results, the patency of the internal jugular vein remains unaltered after functional neck dissection. Ultrasonographically there is no thrombosis after this procedure. [source]


    Shoulder Disability After Different Selective Neck Dissections (Levels II,IV Versus Levels II,V): A Comparative Study

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 2 2005
    Johnny Cappiello MD
    Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: The objective was to compare the results of clinical and electrophysiological investigations of shoulder function in patients affected by head and neck carcinoma treated with concomitant surgery on the primary and the neck with different selective neck dissections. Study Design: Retrospective study of 40 patients managed at the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Brescia (Brescia, Italy) between January 1999 and December 2001. Methods: Two groups of 20 patients each matched for gender and age were selected according to the type of neck dissection received: patients in group A had selective neck dissection involving clearance of levels II,IV, and patients in group B had clearance of levels II,V. The inclusion criteria were as follows: no preoperative signs of myopathy or neuropathy, no postoperative radiotherapy, and absence of locoregional recurrence. At least 1 year after surgery, patients underwent evaluation of shoulder function by means of a questionnaire, clinical inspection, strength and motion tests, electromyography of the upper trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles, and electroneurography of the spinal accessory nerve. Statistical comparisons of the clinical data were obtained using the contingency tables with Fisher's Exact test. Electrophysiological data were analyzed by means of Fisher's Exact test, and electromyography results by Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: A slight strength impairment of the upper limb, slight motor deficit of the shoulder, and shoulder pain were observed in 0%, 5%, and 15% of patients in group A and in 20%, 15%, and 15% of patients in group B, respectively. On inspection, in group B, shoulder droop, shoulder protraction, and scapular flaring were present in 30%, 15%, and 5% of patients, respectively. One patient (5%) in group A showed shoulder droop as the only significant finding. In group B, muscle strength and arm movement impairment were found in 25% of patients, 25% showed limited shoulder flexion, and 50% had abnormalities of shoulder abduction with contralateral head rotation. In contrast, only one patient (5%) in group A presented slight arm abduction impairment. Electromyographic abnormalities were less frequently found in group A than in group B (40% vs. 85% [P = .003]), and the distribution of abnormalities recorded in the upper trapezius muscle and sternocleidomastoid muscle was quite different: 20% and 40% in group A versus 85% and 45% in group B, respectively. Only one case of total upper trapezius muscle denervation was observed in group B. In both groups, electroneurographic data from the side of the neck treated showed a statistically significant increase in latency (P = .001) and decrease in amplitude (P = .008) compared with the contralateral side. There was no significant difference in electroneurographic data from the side with and the side without dissection in either group. Even though a high number of abnormalities was found on electrophysiological testing, only a limited number of patients, mostly in group B, displayed shoulder function disability affecting daily activities. Conclusion: The study data confirm that clearance of the posterior triangle of the neck increases shoulder morbidity. However, subclinical nerve impairment can be observed even after selective neck dissection (levels II,IV) if the submuscular recess is routinely dissected. [source]


    Marginal mandibular nerve injury during neck dissection and its impact on patient perception of appearance

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 5 2009
    FRACDS(OMS), FRCS(OMFS), Martin D. Batstone MPhil(Surg)
    Abstract Background. Neck dissection to remove cervical lymph nodes is common practice in head and neck cancer management. The marginal mandibular nerve may be injured during neck dissection, particularly of level 1. The rate of injury to this nerve is underreported in the literature and its impact on patients is not well defined. Methods. An observational study was undertaken on patients who had undergone neck dissection over a 5-year period. The patients were examined for weakness and given a questionnaire related their perception of their appearance and their function. Results. Sixty-six patients were identified who had undergone 85 neck dissections. The rate of House Brackmann injury was 18% when analyzed by patient and 23% by neck. There were moderate correlations between observed injury and subjective responses to questions relating to ability to smile and weakness of the lower lip. Discussion. The rate of smile asymmetry following neck dissection is relatively high; however, severe injuries to the marginal mandibular nerve are uncommon. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009 [source]


    Elective neck dissection in early-stage oral squamous cell carcinoma,does it influence recurrence and survival?

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 1 2007
    Ana Capote MD
    Abstract Background. This study investigates the influence on survival and regional control rates of neck dissection therapy at the time of surgery of the primary tumor in early stages of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oral cavity. Methods. A series of 154 patients with pT1N0M0 and pT2N0M0 intraoral carcinomas was analyzed retrospectively. Neck dissection was associated with tumor ablation in 87 patients (56.5%), although 67 patients (43.5%) were treated with local resection exclusively. Survival and relapse rates were studied with the Kaplan,Meier curves and the log-rank test for univariate analysis and Cox proportional model for multivariate analysis (p < .05). Results. Regional recurrences occurred in 25 cases (16.2%), 7 cases (8%) with primary neck dissection and 18 cases (26.8%) with local excision alone. Neck dissection therapy was a significant prognostic factor for recurrences and survival (p < .05). The 5-year regional control rate was of 92.5% for patients with elective lymph node ablation versus 71.2% for patients without primary neck dissection. Neck dissection was also significant for recurrences in stage I and for survival and recurrences in stage II. Neck dissection therapy also showed independent prognostic value in the Cox analysis. Conclusions. In patients with intraoral carcinomas, elective neck treatment should be considered even in cases with a small primary tumor and negative clinical examination because of the high incidence of occult nodal metastases and the tendency to regional recurrences. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007 [source]


    Treatment of the N0 neck during salvage surgery after radiotherapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 8 2005
    Stephane Temam MD
    Abstract Background. The morbidity and mortality rates of salvage surgery in patients with local recurrence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) after radiotherapy are high. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of occult neck node metastasis and the surgical morbidity of patients after salvage surgery for local relapse after definitive radiotherapy. Methods. Thirty patients who underwent salvage surgery with a simultaneous neck node dissection for a local relapse after definitive radiotherapy for HNSCC between 1992 and 2000 were included in this study. The primary tumor sites were oral cavity in six patients, oropharynx in 17, supraglottic larynx in three, and hypopharynx in four. Initially, seven patients had T2 disease, eight had T3, and 15 had T4. Results. Twelve patients (40%) experienced postoperative complications, including two deaths. There was no cervical lymph node metastasis (pN0) in 29 of the 30 patients. Fifteen patients (50%) had a recurrence after salvage surgery, including 11 new local recurrences and four patients with distant metastasis. Conclusions. The risk of neck node metastasis during salvage surgery for local recurrence in patients treated initially with radiation for N0 HNSCC is low. Neck dissection should be performed in only limited area, depending on the surgical procedure used for tumor resection. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck27: XXX,XXX, 2005 [source]


    Elective neck dissection during salvage surgery for locally recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma after radiotherapy with elective nodal irradiation,

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 5 2010
    Roi Dagan MD
    Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: To define the role of elective neck dissection during salvage surgery for locally recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA) initially treated with elective nodal irradiation (ENI). Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of patients treated with ENI at our institution from 1965 to 2006 for T1-4 N0 M0 SCCA of the oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx who developed an isolated local recurrence and remained N0. Fifty-seven patients were salvaged, 40 with neck dissection and 17 with neck observation. We then compared toxicity and actuarial outcomes between the two groups. Results were compared to the pertinent literature in a pooled analysis. Results: Four of 46 (9%) heminecks were found to have occult metastases in dissected specimens. The 5-year local-regional control rate was 75% for all patients. Neck dissection resulted in poorer outcomes compared with observation. In the dissected group, the 5-year local control, regional control, cause-specific survival, and overall survival rates were 71%, 87%, 60%, and 45%, respectively, compared to 82%, 94%, 92%, and 56%, respectively, for the observed group. Toxicity was more likely with dissection. In the pooled analysis totaling 230 patients, the overall pathologic positive rate of neck-dissection specimens was 9.6%; the compiled data showed no improvement in outcomes when salvage included neck dissection. Conclusions: Routine elective neck dissection should not be included during salvage surgery for locally recurrent head and neck SCCA if initial radiotherapy includes ENI. The risk of occult neck disease is low, outcomes do not improve, and the likelihood of toxicity increases. Laryngoscope, 2010 [source]


    High-Risk Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma without Palpable Lymphadenopathy: Is There a Therapeutic Role for Elective Neck Dissection?

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2007
    JUAN-CARLOS MARTINEZ MD
    PURPOSE The beneficial role of elective neck dissection (END) in the management of high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) of the head and neck remains unproven. Some surgical specialists suggest that END may be beneficial for patients with clinically node-negative (N0) high-risk CSCC, but there are few data to support this claim. We reviewed the available literature regarding the use of END in the management of both CSCC and head and neck SCC (HNSCC). METHODOLOGY The available medical literature pertaining to END in both CSCC and HNSCC was reviewed using PubMed and Ovid Medline searches. RESULTS Many surgical specialists recommend that END be routinely performed in patients with N0 HNSCC when the risk of occult metastases is estimated to exceed 20%; however, patients who undergo END have no proven survival benefit over those who are initially staged as N0 and undergo therapeutic neck dissection (TND) after the development of apparent regional disease. There is a lack of data regarding the proper management of regional nodal basins in patients with N0 CSCC. In the absence of evidence-based data, the cutaneous surgeon must rely on clinical judgment to guide the management of patients with N0 high-risk CSCC of the head and neck. CONCLUSIONS Appropriate work-up for occult nodal disease may occasionally be warranted in patients with high-risk CSCC. END may play a role in only a very limited number of patients with high-risk CSCC. [source]


    Development of musculoskeletal complaints and functional disabilities in patients with laryngeal carcinoma after neck dissection sparing spinal accessory nerve

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CANCER CARE, Issue 2 2009
    B. OZ md, physical therapy, rehabilitation specialist
    First page of article [source]


    Effect of preoperative prophylaxis with filgrastim in cancer neck dissection

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 5 2000
    Wenisch
    Background Cancer surgery is known to lead to a deterioration in host defence mechanisms and an increase in susceptibility to infection after operation. Filgrastim enhances important antimicrobial functions of neutrophils including chemotaxis, phagocytosis and oxidative killing mechanisms. Methods The effects of additional (all patients received perioperative 3 , 25 mg kg,1 cefotiam and 1 , 20 mg kg,1 metronidazole) preoperative prophylaxis with filgrastim (5 ,g kg,1 12 h prior to surgery plus 5 ,g kg,1 0 h prior to surgery) on neutrophil phagocytosis and reactive oxygen radical production and postoperative infections in 24 patients undergoing cancer neck dissection were studied. Phagocytic capacity was assessed by measuring the uptake of fluorescein isothiocyanate-labelled Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus by flow cytometry. Reactive oxygen generation after phagocytosis was estimated by determining the amount of dihydrorhodamine 123 converted to rhodamine 123, intracellularly. Results In the filgrastim-treated patients a higher neutrophil phagocytic capacity was seen intraoperatively, and 1,5 days postoperative, but not prior to surgery. Reactive oxygen radical production was significantly higher in filgrastim-treated patients prior to surgery, intraoperative and postoperative (1,5 days). 2/12 (17%) patients had postoperative infections in the filgrastim group and 9/12 (75%) patients had infections in the placebo group (P < 0.001). In particular, wound infections were recorded more often in the placebo group (1/12 vs. 6/12; P = 0.004). Conclusion We conclude that filgrastim enhances perioperative neutrophil function and could be useful in the prophylaxis of postoperative wound infections in patients undergoing cancer neck dissection. [source]


    Predicting the pattern of regional metastases from cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck based on location of the primary

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 10 2010
    Ardalan Ebrahimi FRACS
    Abstract Background We aimed to analyze the distribution of regional nodal metastases according to primary tumor location in patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Methods Analysis of 295 neck dissections performed for patients with clinically evident regional metastases from cutaneous SCCHN between 1987 and 2009. Results Level I involvement in the absence of level II or III only occurred in patients with facial primaries. In patients with clear nodes in level II,III, the risk of level IV,V involvement was 0.0% for external ear primaries, 2.7% for face and anterior scalp, and 15.8% for posterior scalp and neck. Conclusion In patients undergoing parotidectomy for metastatic cutaneous SCCHN with a clinically negative neck, the results of this study support selective neck dissection including level I,III for facial primaries, level II,III for anterior scalp and external ear primaries, and levels II,V for posterior scalp and neck primaries. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010 [source]


    Application of post-surgical stimulated thyroglobulin for radioiodine remnant ablation selection in low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma,,

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 6 2010
    Alon Vaisman HBSc
    Abstract Background We present our ongoing experience in the use of postsurgical stimulated serum thyroglobulin (Stim-Tg) to assist in radioiodine remnant ablation (RRA) decision-making. Methods Patients with low-risk well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (WDTC) with undetectable anti-Tg antibodies were prospectively followed after total thyroidectomy and therapeutic central compartment neck dissection, when indicated.Stim-Tg was performed 3 months postoperatively and used to base RRA selection. Results Of 104 patients, 59 patients (56.7%) had an undetectable Stim-Tg after thyroidectomy, 35 (33.7%) had Stim-Tg values of 1,5 ,g/L, and 10 (9.6%) had Stim-Tg values >5 ,g/L. RRA was administered to 1 patient (1.7%) with undetectable Stim-Tg, 6 patients (17.1%) with Stim-Tg1,5 ,g/L, and 9 patients (90%) with Stim-Tg >5 ,g/L, for a total of 16 patients (15.4%) receiving RRA. When compared to current RRA selection guidelines, the proposed protocol achieved a significantly lower RRA administration rate. Conclusion Stim-Tg measurement performed several months after total thyroidectomy is a useful objective parameter in assisting RRA decision-making for patients with low-risk WDTC. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010 [source]


    Accessory nerve function after level 2b,preserving selective neck dissection

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 11 2009
    Bilge Celik MD
    Abstract Background. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the relationship between accessory nerve functions and level 2b,preserving selective neck dissection. Methods. Forty-one necks of 30 patients with laryngeal cancer who underwent unilateral or bilateral level 2b,preserving neck dissections, between February 2003 and July 2005, were evaluated. Neck and shoulder movements and muscle strengths were examined and electroneuromyography (ENMG) was performed preoperatively at the postoperative 21st day and 6th month. Pathological anatomical findings at the postoperative 6th month were also evaluated. Results. All shoulder movements and muscle strengths were preserved. Neck extension, rotation movements, and flexion strengths were restricted. ENMG values were affected moderately in the early postoperative period and improved slightly in the late postoperative period. None of the patients developed shoulder syndrome or adhesive capsulitis. Conclusion. Preserving level 2b during selective neck dissection decreases trauma to the accessory nerve and improves functional results. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009 [source]


    Marginal mandibular nerve injury during neck dissection and its impact on patient perception of appearance

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 5 2009
    FRACDS(OMS), FRCS(OMFS), Martin D. Batstone MPhil(Surg)
    Abstract Background. Neck dissection to remove cervical lymph nodes is common practice in head and neck cancer management. The marginal mandibular nerve may be injured during neck dissection, particularly of level 1. The rate of injury to this nerve is underreported in the literature and its impact on patients is not well defined. Methods. An observational study was undertaken on patients who had undergone neck dissection over a 5-year period. The patients were examined for weakness and given a questionnaire related their perception of their appearance and their function. Results. Sixty-six patients were identified who had undergone 85 neck dissections. The rate of House Brackmann injury was 18% when analyzed by patient and 23% by neck. There were moderate correlations between observed injury and subjective responses to questions relating to ability to smile and weakness of the lower lip. Discussion. The rate of smile asymmetry following neck dissection is relatively high; however, severe injuries to the marginal mandibular nerve are uncommon. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009 [source]


    Efficacy of diagnostic upper node evaluation during (salvage) laryngectomy for supraglottic carcinoma

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 2 2009
    Ronald J. E. Pennings MD
    Abstract Background. The effectiveness of selective upper node dissection or inspection during laryngectomy for supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma was evaluated. These diagnostic procedures aimed to cause less morbidity than elective neck dissection in patients with a clinically N0 neck. Methods. In 93 patients, 166 clinically N0 necks (73 bilateral and 20 contralateral) were evaluated. Lymph nodes at levels II and III were inspected or dissected and directly sent in for frozen section histopathology. This way, occult neck metastases were identified and treated by neck dissection. Results. Occult neck metastases were identified in 19% of the examined necks (31/166). Regional recurrence rate in the postoperative N0 necks was 0%, and 10% in the postoperative N+ necks. Conclusions. Selective upper node dissection and inspection during laryngectomy reduced the need for an elective neck dissection with its morbidity in the clinically N0 neck. In addition, it selects the patients who need such extensive treatment. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009. [source]


    Use of combined molecular biomarkers for prediction of clinical outcomes in locally advanced tonsillar cancers treated with chemoradiotherapy alone

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 1 2009
    Yih-Lin Chung MD
    Abstract Background. Environmental exposures to tobacco, alcohol, human papillomavirus (HPV) and/or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), all of which can perturb multiple cell cycle proteins or tumor suppressors, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of different subsets of head and neck cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate to which extent the virus infection by itself, and/or the altered cell cycle proteins, contributes to prognosis in locally advanced tonsillar squamous cell carcinomas (TSCCs) treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) alone. Methods. Serial tumor tissue arrays from archival samples were tested for the presence of HPV genome integration or EBV episome by means of DNA sequencing, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and in situ hybridization. Alterations of cell cycle proteins (p53, pRb, and p21) were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. The association of viral presence with altered cell cycle proteins was correlated to clinical outcomes. Results. Of the 46 patients with the same T2N2bM0 stage IVA among consecutive patients with TSCC, 23 (50%) had integrated HPV DNA and only 1 (2%) had EBV episome. The HPV types detected were almost all HPV-16. A reduced expression pattern of p53, pRb, and p21 was noted in HPV-positive tumors, and the incremental number of alterations in the 3 proteins was significantly associated with HPV-negative tumors. The presence or absence of HPV together with the number of altered expression of the 3 cell cycle markers resulted in further identification of 4 biologically and clinically distinct subgroups with different outcomes after CCRT. Conclusions. Use of combined biomarkers of oncogenic HPV and tumor suppressors of p53, pRb, and p21 in advanced TSCC provides prognostic molecular classification superior to the TNM stage system and identifies low-risk patients for organ preservation by CCRT alone and high-risk patients who might benefit from planned tonsillectomy and neck dissection before or after CCRT. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009 [source]


    Accuracy of 18F-FDG-PET/CT for staging of oral squamous cell carcinoma,

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 11 2008
    MSci, Monica Pentenero DDS
    Abstract Background. This study prospectively assessed 2-[F18]-fluoro-2-deoxy- D -glucose,positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET)/CT (PET/CT) in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Methods. Twenty-three patients completed preoperative TNM staging (CT, MR, whole-body fusion imaging PET/CT). In patients who underwent surgical therapy (19 of 23), TNM staging based on PET/CT scan was compared with pTNM. Results. PET/CT correctly staged 16 of 19 primary tumors (accuracy 84.2%, sensitivity 84.2%, positive predictive value 100%) and correctly ruled out bone invasion in 3 patients with false-positive results according to CT and/or MR. PET/CT incorrectly identified neck involvement in 5 of 15 patients (3 false positives, 2 false negatives) who underwent neck dissection (accuracy 66.7%, specificity 76.9%, negative predictive value 83.3%). False-negative cases showed a nodal size not exceeding 10 mm. One patient with a bronchial synchronous primary tumor was identified. Conclusion. PET/CT scan showed good accuracy in determining the extension and/or depth of invasion of the primary tumor. Nevertheless, PET/CT was not accurate to rule out nodal metastases. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008 [source]


    Effectiveness of selective neck dissection in the treatment of the clinically positive neck

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 9 2008
    FRCS ORL-HNS, Rajan S. Patel MBChB
    Abstract Background. The aim of this work was to determine whether or not patients treated with therapeutic selective neck dissection for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were oncologically disadvantaged compared with those having comprehensive procedures. Methods. The study involves a retrospective review of 232 therapeutic neck dissections with a minimum of 2 years follow-up. Results. Patients having selective neck dissection had fewer adverse prognostic factors compared with patients having comprehensive dissection (pN2/3, p = .001; and extracapsular spread, p = .001). There were trends toward improved control in the dissected neck (96% vs 86%, p = .06), and disease-specific survival (59% vs 43%, p = .06) following selective neck dissection. Disease-specific survival for all patients was adversely affected by pN classification (p <.001) and extracapsular spread (p <.001). Conclusions. Patients undergoing aggressive neck surgery had more extensive disease. Selective neck dissection can be used to effectively treat clinically positive nodal disease in selected patients. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2008 [source]


    Supracricoid partial laryngectomy as salvage surgery for radiation therapy failure

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 8 2008
    Alberto Deganello MD
    Abstract Background The main concern in the treatment of laryngeal carcinomas is tumor control with preservation of laryngeal functions. We believe that salvage supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SPL) should be carefully considered in selected cases of radiotherapy failure, because it can offer the possibility of achieving adequate tumor control with preservation of laryngeal functions. Methods A series of 31 patients who underwent an SPL as salvage procedure after radiotherapy failure was reviewed. Results Locoregional control rate was 75%, with 60% 5-year overall survival; no patients were lost to follow-up, and a death-from-disease rate of 19.35% was recorded. Restoration of laryngeal functions was achieved in 89.29% of the patients. No statistically significant differences were found in locoregional control regarding anterior commissure involvement, elective neck dissection versus wait-and-see policy, pathologic positive neck disease, and restage I,II versus restage III,IV. Conclusion The oncologic and functional results indicate the consistency of salvage SPL, proposing this type of operation as a serious alternative to total laryngectomy in carefully selected cases. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008 [source]


    Transoral laser surgery for supraglottic cancer

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 5 2008
    Juan P. Rodrigo MD
    Abstract The goal of treatment for supraglottic cancer is to achieve cure and to preserve laryngeal function. Organ preservation strategies include both endoscopic and open surgical approaches as well as radiation and chemotherapy. The challenge is to select the correct modalities for each patient. Endoscopic procedures should be limited to tumors that can be completely visualized during diagnostic microlaryngoscopy. If complete resection can be achieved, the oncologic results of transoral laser surgery appear to be comparable to those of classic supraglottic laryngectomy. In addition, functional results of transoral laser resection are superior to those of the conventional open approach, in terms of the time required to restore swallowing, tracheotomy rate, incidence of pharyngocutaneous fistulae, and shorter hospital stay. The management of the neck remains of paramount importance, as survival of patients with supraglottic cancer depends more on cervical metastasis than on the primary tumor. Most authors advocate bilateral elective neck dissection. However, in selected cases (T1,T2 clinically negative [N0] lateral supraglottic cancers), ipsilateral selective neck dissection could be performed without compromising survival. The authors conclude that with careful selection of patients, laser supraglottic laryngectomy is a suitable, and often the preferred, treatment option for supraglottic cancer. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008 [source]


    Concurrent chemoradiotherapy with weekly paclitaxel and carboplatin for locally advanced head and neck cancer: Long-term follow-up of a Brown University Oncology Group Phase II Study (HN-53)

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 3 2008
    Prakash B. Chougule MD
    Abstract Background. A phase II study was conducted using concurrent paclitaxel, carboplatin, and external beam radiotherapy (RT) in patients with advanced head and neck cancer. Methods. Forty-three patients (stage III, n = 12; stage IV, n = 31) were treated with 8 cycles of weekly paclitaxel (60 mg/m2), carboplatin (area under the curve [AUC] = 1), and RT (1.8 Gy daily; total dose, 66,72 Gy). Patients with initially palpable lymph nodes underwent neck dissection. Results. The overall clinical response rate was 91% (65% complete, 26% partial). Severe mucositis occurred in 37 (90%) patients, necessitating hospitalization in 13 (31%) patients. With a median follow-up of 49 months, the locoregional and distant failure rates were 26% and 21%, respectively. Conclusions. Concurrent paclitaxel, carboplatin, and RT for advanced head and neck cancer results in high complete response rates. Long-term follow-up has revealed the curative potential of this regimen, though the doses used resulted in unacceptable toxicity. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2008 [source]


    Is central neck dissection necessary for the treatment of lateral cervical nodal recurrence of papillary thyroid carcinoma?

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 10 2007
    Jong-Lyel Roh MD
    Abstract Background: Although the pattern of cervical lymph node metastases from papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has been described, little is known about the pattern of lateral cervical nodal recurrence. The aim of this study was to establish the optimal strategy for neck dissection in patients who underwent reoperation for lateral cervical recurrence of PTC. Methods: We reviewed the records of 22 patients who underwent neck dissection for lateral nodal recurrence of thyroid cancer between 2002 and 2004. Eight patients had thyroid remnants or recurrent tumors in the bed and 6 had undergone lateral neck dissection prior to referral. Patients underwent comprehensive dissection of the posterolateral and ipsilateral (n = 10) or bilateral (n = 12) central neck. The pattern of nodal recurrence and postoperative morbidity were analyzed. Results: All patients had lateral compartment involvement, 91% at mid-lower, 45% at upper, and 18% at posterior sites. Central nodes were involved in 86% of patients: 82% at ipsilateral paratracheal, 32% at pretracheal, 27% at superior mediastinal, and 2 patients at contralateral sites. Skip lateral recurrence with no positive central nodes was rarely observed (14%). Postoperative vocal cord palsy (n = 1) and hypoparathyroidism (n = 5) developed only in patients undergoing bilateral central compartment dissection. Conclusions: The inclusion of comprehensive ipsilateral central and lateral neck dissection in the reoperation for patients with lateral neck recurrence of PTC is an optimal surgical strategy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2007 [source]


    Isolated neck recurrence after definitive radiotherapy for node-positive head and neck cancer: Salvage in the dissected or undissected neck

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 8 2007
    Stanley L. Liauw MD
    Abstract Background. The role of salvage neck dissection for isolated regional recurrences after definitive radiotherapy (RT) is ill-defined. Methods. Five-hundred fifty patients were treated with RT for lymph node,positive head and neck cancer. RT consisted of a median dose of 74.4 Gy. Chemotherapy was administered in 133 patients (24%). Patients were followed for neck failure after planned neck dissection (n = 341) or observation (n = 209). Salvage therapy was offered to those with isolated neck recurrences. Results. There were 54 (10%) failures in the neck at a median 3.7 months after RT (range, 0 to 17 months). Thirteen patients had isolated recurrences after receiving definitive RT with (n = 11) or without (n = 2) neck dissection. Nine patients underwent attempted surgical salvage with or without re-irradiation and 4 were successfully salvaged without major complications. Conclusions. Patients with neck failure after definitive therapy usually have poor outcomes, but salvage attempts may be successful in selected patients with an isolated neck recurrence. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007 [source]


    Do pre-irradiation dental extractions reduce the risk of osteoradionecrosis of the mandible?

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 6 2007
    Daniel T. Chang MD
    Abstract Background. This study was done to determine if pre-radiotherapy (pre-RT) dental extractions reduce the risk of osteoradionecrosis (ORN). Methods. Between 1987 and 2004, 413 patients with oropharyngeal carcinomas were treated with definitive RT at the University of Florida. Dentate patients underwent pretreatment dental evaluation. Teeth in the RT field were usually extracted if thought to have poor long-term prognosis from dental disease. The endpoint was ,grade 2 ORN using a modified staging system. Patients were excluded for local recurrence, additional RT above the clavicles, or head and neck surgery besides neck dissection. Results. ORN rates were as follows: edentulous, <1%; teeth in-field with pre-RT extractions, 15%; and teeth in-field without pre-RT extractions, 9%. Patients with poor in-field teeth and pre-RT extractions had a higher 5-year incidence of ORN than those who did not have pre-RT extractions (16% vs 6%, p = .48). Likewise, for those with in-field teeth in good condition and pre-RT extractions, the 5-year ORN incidence was higher than for those who did not undergo extractions (15% vs 2%, p = .42). Multivariate analysis revealed increased ORN risk with doses of >70 Gy, once-daily fractionation, or brachytherapy. Conclusion. Pre-RT extractions do not appear to reduce the risk of ORN. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2007 [source]


    Retropharyngeal node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma

    HEAD & NECK: JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENCES & SPECIALTIES OF THE HEAD AND NECK, Issue 5 2007
    Naoki Otsuki MD
    Abstract Background. Papillary thyroid carcinomas commonly metastasize to paratracheal and jugular lymph nodes. Metastasis to the retropharyngeal node is rare for this tumor. Methods. Five patients underwent surgical treatment for metastasis of thyroid papillary carcinoma to the retropharyngeal lymph nodes that presented as a parapharyngeal or retropharyngeal mass. All patients had a history of total or subtotal thyroidectomy as their initial treatment. Among them, 3 patients had undergone ipsilateral modified radical neck dissection at their initial treatment. The other 2 patients had a history of bilateral or ipsilateral modified neck dissection for their subsequent cervical lymph node metastases. Results. Metastatic retropharyngeal nodes were successfully resected via transcervical approach in all patients. Although aspiration and difficulty in swallowing were observed in 2 patients after surgical treatment for metastatic retropharyngeal nodes, these complications spontaneously resolved within a few months. Conclusions. This study suggests that neck dissection and/or metastatic cervical lymph nodes might alter the direction of lymphatic drainage to the retrograde fashion, resulting in the unusual metastasis to the retropharyngeal lymph nodes. Although the cases described here are rare, metastasis to the retropharyngeal node should be considered at the follow-up for thyroid papillary carcinoma. Because these metastases will be missed by routine ultrasonography of the neck, periodic CT scan or MRI is recommended for follow-up, especially for patients with a history of neck dissection. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2007 [source]