Otolaryngology: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Background: Management of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) that originates from supraglottis requires remarkable concern due to its lymphatic drainage. The classic approach is elective dissection of second, third and fourth cervical zones? lymph nodes in patients with negative clinical and radiological findings. Neck dissectionis an extremelyextensive procedure that has major wound, vascular and nerve complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of positive lymph nodes in patients with supraglottic SCC who had negative finding in clinical and radiological assessments. Methods: 60 patients with supraglottic SCC and preoperative negative physical exam and radiologic finding who underwent elective neck dissection of second, third and fourth cervical zones were selected consecutively and the dissected lymph nodes evaluated pathologically. Lymph nodes involvement and parameters such as age, gender, tumor grade and smoking were analyzed. Result: The rate of the occult neck metastasis in patients with supraglottic SCC without clinical and radiological involvement was 37%. No significant correlation was found between lymph node involvement and tumor grade, smoking, age and sex. Conclusion:Our study showed a remarkable percentage of cervical lymph node involvement. According to our study we advise elective bilateral neck dissection in all supraglottic SCC patients regardless of age, gender, smoking and tumor grade.

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