Role of Selective Node Dissection in the Treatment of Node-Negative Neck in Oral Carcinoma

Abstract

Background: Oral carcinoma is a severe oncological problem that calls for all-encompassing therapeutic strategies. In these circumstances, substantial neck dissection has historically been used to treat node-negative neck, which carries a risk of morbidity. The usefulness of selective node dissection, a possibly less invasive approach, is still being studied. Methods: From November 2020 to July 2022, 50 patients with oral cancer and node-negative neck involvement participated in this observational prospective study. Population statistics, tumor features, surgery specifics, and postoperative results were gathered and examined. Selective node dissection was carried out in accordance with predetermined standards. Results: A demographic study showed that patients were predominantly male (70%), with an average age of 57.4 years. The floor of the mouth (20%), buccal mucosa (30%), and the tongue (40%) were the three most frequent sites for tumors, with squamous cell carcinoma accounting for 90% of all histological subtypes. An average of 27 lymph nodes were removed during the surgical surgery, and other procedures, like neck dissection (90%), were also carried out. Infection (10%), problems with the healing of the wound (6%), and nerve injury (4%), were all postoperative consequences. The results of the survival are still being analyzed. Conclusion: This observational prospective analysis offers important new understandings of the function of selective node dissection in the management of oral cancer with node-negative neck. Future research will ascertain its impact on survival outcomes and improve its therapeutic application, ultimately boosting patient care in the therapy of oral cancer. The findings suggest its potential advantages in minimizing surgical morbidity.