Outcomes in N3 Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Role of Upfront Neck Dissection.

Objectives: We investigated the prognostic factor of N3 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), including the role of upfront neck dissection (UFND) before radiotherapy (RT).

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of consecutive N3 HNSCC patients treated with curative intent RT.

Results: In the study, 323 N3 HNSCC patients were included. Of those, 125 patients (39%) had UFND. Median follow-up was 3.9 years (0-14.8 years). Overall survival (OS) at 5 years was 31.2%, and progression-free survival (PFS) was 26%. In the multivariate analysis, OS was improved in PS 0, T1-2 tumors, patients receiving concurrent chemotherapy, never or former smokers, and UFND. UFND was strongly associated with increased OS (45.7% vs. 21.2%, P < .001), and PFS (P < .001). Regardless of neck node size, UFND improved survival (P = .001 for ≤ 7 cm and P = .004 for > 7 cm).

Conclusion: UFND could improve treatment outcomes in N3 HNSCC, especially for non-oropharyngeal cancer, regardless of neck node size. Level of evidence: 2B Laryngoscope, 131:E844-E850, 2021.