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Open Access 01-01-2011 | Head and Neck

Tumour thickness in oral cancer using an intra-oral ultrasound probe

Authors: Wouter L. Lodder, Hendrik J. Teertstra, Ing B. Tan, Frank A. Pameijer, Ludi E. Smeele, Marie-Louise F. van Velthuysen, Michiel W. M. van den Brekel

Published in: European Radiology | Issue 1/2011

Abstract

Objectives

To investigate tumour-thickness measurement with an intra-operative ultrasound (US) probe.

Methods

A retrospective data analysis was undertaken for a total of 65 patients with a T1-2 oral cavity cancer, who were seen at a tertiary referral centre between 2004 and 2010. The correspondence between tumour thickness measured by ultrasonography and histopathology was assessed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and also between tumour thickness and the development of neck metastasis.

Results

In 11 cases, intra-oral measurement was not optimal due to limited mouth opening (n = 2) or impossibility to depict the lesion (n = 9). Tumour thickness measured by US correlated well with histopathology (n = 23, R = 0.93). Tumour thickness of ≤7 mm carries a risk of lymph node metastasis of 12%, whereas in tumours exceeding 7 mm this risk is 57% (p = 0.001). Twenty-five percent developed neck metastasis and 19% had local recurrence.

Conclusion

Tumour thickness is an important predictive marker for lymph node metastases. As such, it can help in decision-making with regard to management of the primary tumour and neck. Based upon our findings, a wait-and-see policy is only warranted for superficial lesions with tumour thickness of less than 7 mm, but only if regular follow-up using US-guided aspiration of the neck is ensured.

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Title: Tumour thickness in oral cancer using an intra-oral ultrasound probe
Authors: Wouter L. Lodder
Hendrik J. Teertstra
Ing B. Tan
Frank A. Pameijer
Ludi E. Smeele
Marie-Louise F. van Velthuysen
Michiel W. M. van den Brekel
Publication date: 01-01-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: European Radiology / Issue 1/2011
Print ISSN: 0938-7994
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1084
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-010-1891-7

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Tumour thickness in oral cancer using an intra-oral ultrasound probe

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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