Quality of life after neck-dissection : comparison of the oncological and functional results of the radical and modified radical neck dissection in patients with head and neck carcinomas

english

1997

volume 31, issue 2

Onkološki inštitut Ljubljana

The most significant prognostic factor in patients with head and neck cancer is the presence of cervical node metastases. Indications for the various techniques of neck dissection can undergo substantial variations according to the metastatic status found, biological aggressiveness of tumour, nodal volumeand personal viewpoint of the attending clinician. Authors discuss the indications and contra-indications of the various surgical techniques of neck dissection and evaluate long-term results. The present paper reports on clinical experience with radical neck dissection (RND), modified neck dissection (MRND) and selective neck dissection (SeIND). Between 1986-1994 623patients with the tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx and paranasal sinuses were treated at our department. The data, such as age, neck nodal stage, tumour grade and localisation of primary tumour were recorded. Neck dissection was performed in 511 cases, 351 RND, 135 MRND, 25 SelND. In 32 cases, bilateral neck dissection was performed. Neck dissection was performed in 249 patients with persistent node metastasis after radiotherapy. Survival, neck control rates and other factors in patients who had a RND, were compared with those who had MTND. Regional lymph node metastases of head and neck cancer occur in predictable pattern. Based on these patterns of nodal mestastasis, the recommendations for the use of modifications of neck dissection are represented.

10.11.2023