Retrospective study analysing nodal recurrence in early oral squamous cell carincoma treated by prophylactic or therapeutic neck dissection

Abstract

Introduction: The tendency for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to recur in the neck has resulted in debate around the role of prophylactic neck dissection. The risk of morbidity from the procedure needs to be weighed against the potential survival benefit. Recent studies have resulted in changes to the national guidance in favour of offering patients with small tumours prophylactic neck dissection.