Planned Neck Dissection Following Radiation Treatment for Head and Neck Malignancy. (24th September 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dautremont, J. F.; Brake, M. K.; Thompson, G.; Trites, J.; Hart, R. D.; Taylor, S. M.
• Other Names: Karatzanis Alexandros D. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: International journal of otolaryngology. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-09-24
• Subjects: Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases; Otolaryngology; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.51
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/954203
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1687-9201

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction . Optimal therapy for patients with metastatic neck disease remains controversial. Neck dissection following radiotherapy has traditionally been used to improve locoregional control. Methods . A retrospective review of 28 patients with node-positive head and neck malignancy treated with planned neck dissection following radiotherapy between January 2002 and December 2005 was performed to assess treatment outcomes. Results . Median interval to neck dissection was 9.6 weeks with a median number of 21 + 9 lymph nodes per specimen. Ten of 31 (32%) neck dissection specimens demonstrated evidence of residual carcinoma. Overall survival at two years was 85%; five-year overall survival was 65%. Concurrent chemotherapy did not impact the presence of residual neck disease. Conclusion . Based on the frequency of residual malignancy in the neck of patients treated with primary radiotherapy, a planned, postradiotherapy neck dissection should be strongly advocated for all patients with advanced-stage neck disease.