Multi detector computed tomographic evaluation of neck spaces in locally advanced oral cancers

Abstract

Background: Malignancy of the oral cavity account for about 7.6% of total cancer in India. Local anatomical spread of oral cancers into the face and maxilla and further extension into neck spaces is critical for staging of cancers. Cancer staging helps in the treatment of oral cancers. CT is considered the primary modality of investigation as it helps in delineating the size and extent of primary tumor. Objective: To perform multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and to evaluate its usefulness in as-sessing the involvement of deep neck spaces in locally advanced oral cancers. To assess CT morphology specifi-cally to know resectability or non-resectability of oral cancers. Methods and Material: Study included a total of 39 cases of locally advanced oral cancer referred for CECT neck. MDCT findings were analyzed with regard to location, size and extent of the disease and findings were correlated with either clinical follow up or surgical findings. Results: In our study highest number of cases were of carcinoma buccal mucosa (71.8 %) followed by carcinoma tongue and lower alveolus. Most commonly involved neck space was buccal space (94.9 %). CT was 100% accurate in detecting the bone erosion. Conclusion: MDCT evaluation of neck spaces in locally advanced oral cancers is a superior diagnostic tool in tumour staging and appropriate treatment planning. Surgical management of T4b oral cancers in our study subjects showed good results with > 50% of patients showing loco-regionally controlled disease after surgery. Keywords: Computed tomography, Neck spaces, Oral, Cancers