Elective Neck Dissection in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Oral Cavity: Our Experiences

Abstract

Objectives
The present study was carried out to assess the efficacy of elective neck dissection (END) in oral Squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) with clinically and radiographically negative neck (N0). 

Materials and methods
The present retrospective study, carried out in the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery of dhulikhel hospital included the records of OSCC patients in whom END was carried out between the period of January 2016 to December 2022.  The study included only the patients with N0 neck who had undergone END. The histopathological records post neck dissection was studied to determine the nodal status. Descriptive statistics was calculated and recorded.

Results
Out of 30 patients operated, 21 met our criteria of inclusion. Out of 21 patients, 14 (66.6%) were male and 7 (33.3%) were female. Supra-omohyoid neck dissection was done in 18 (85.7%) patients. Out of 21 neck dissections, 11 (52.4%) had histopathological evidence of nodal metastasis. Level I B was the most common node involved. 

Conclusion
It is advisable to consider elective neck dissection in Oral cancer with clinically and radiographically negative neck node.