Evaluation of cervical lymph node metastases in the head and neck cancer: Detection with physical examination, computed tomography and ultrasonography

Evaluation of cervical lymph node metastasis in the treatment of the head and neck tumors to get better survive is important. Previously, palpation was the only way in the evaluation of cervical lymph nodes. Due to developments in radiologic imaging methods, valuable imaging methods like CT and USG have been used for the detection of metastatic cervical lymph nodes. In our study we determined the values of these two methods in the detection of metastatic cervical lymph nodes. Palpation of neck, CT and USG examination were performed preoperativly in 32 patients who had undergone various neck dissections. Histopathological examination of the cervical lymph nodes were compared with the Palpation, CT and USG. As a conclusion in the detection of metastatic cervical lymph nodes of head and neck cancer, USG should be used firstly. In cases where USG is ineffective or when there are suspected lymph nodes the combination of CT and USG can provide optimum results.