Page 15 - Head and neck surgery

Ultrasonography of neck to look for any enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Fine needle

aspiration for cytology can be performed under ultrasonographic guidance in case of

suspicious cervical lymph node metastasis.

MRI / CT scan provide a more accurate assessment regarding tumour location and extent of

invasion e.g. prevertebral muscle, bone, trachea and carotid artery in the neck. Any cervical /

mediastinal lymph node metastasis can also be demonstrated and relationship with surrounding

structures such as major vessels in the lower neck and superior mediastinum can be assessed.

Whole body PET scan can provide additional information regarding distant metastasis.

Comprehensive clinical and radiological examination is essential in making the right diagnosis and

accurate clinical staging (AJCC TNM staging). This in turn helps us to formulate the best

treatment plan for individual patients.