Published in:
01-12-2021 | Ultrasound | Head and Neck
One stop neck lump clinic: a boon for quick diagnosis and early management
Published in: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology | Issue 12/2021
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Introduction
One-stop neck lump clinics (OSNLC) are gaining popularity worldwide especially in the UK hospitals following NICE recommendation. The main aim of this speciality clinic is a quick diagnosis and early management while simultaneously improving patient experience.
Objectives
To analyse and compare the efficacy of OSNLC and general ENT/Head and neck clinic with specifics to a number of appointments required for formulating management plan and a number of ‘one stop’ visits.
Design
Retrospective observational study
Setting
Regional Head and Neck Cancer Center (Secondary care hospital)
Participants
Patients referred by General practitioner with symptoms of a neck lump
Main outcome measures
Patients seen in general ENT/Head and neck and OSNLC in 2 phases to understand the difference in a number of appointments, one-stop visits, the requirement of Ultrasound and efficiency of Fine needle aspiration.
Results and conclusions
Improved efficacy of OSNLC was noted as patients seen in the clinic required a lesser number of appointments, reached a faster diagnosis and management plan when compared to patients seen in general ENT clinic.