The role of transoral surgery in the diagnosis of the carcinoma of unknown origin of the head and neck

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this article is to update readers on the most recent evidence on the role of trans oral surgery (TOS) in the diagnosis of carcinoma of the unknown primary of the head and neck.

RECENT FINDINGS: Tongue base mucosectomy has an important role in identifying the primary in patients who have had negative imaging, PET CT scans and ipsilateral tonsillectomy. In patients with bilateral nodal disease, tongue base mucosectomy should precede tonsillectomy. There are several unanswered questions that remain regarding sequencing of operations and use of intraoperative frozen section.

SUMMARY: An evidence-based approach to diagnosis is important to ensure the highest detection rates, and least morbidity, in patients with head and neck carcinoma of the unknown primary.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)129-133
Number of pages5
JournalCurrent opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery
Volume31
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2023

Bibliographical note

Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Humans
  • Neoplasms, Unknown Primary/diagnosis
  • Carcinoma/pathology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms/pathology
  • Neck
  • Tongue/pathology

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