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Outcome of neck dissection for node-positive melanoma
Irvin Pathak1, Ralph Gilbert, John Yoo
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Sunnybrook and Women's Health Sciences Center, Toronto, Ontario.
The Journal of Otolaryngology
|July 18, 2002
Summary
Neck dissection alone for node-positive melanoma showed a 31% regional recurrence rate at 5 years. Advanced neck disease may necessitate adjuvant radiotherapy alongside surgery for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Melanoma recurrence after treatment remains a significant clinical challenge.
- Node-positive melanoma requires effective surgical management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the regional recurrence rates following neck dissection for node-positive melanoma.
- To identify patient subgroups that may benefit from adjuvant therapies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review at a single tertiary care institution.
- Analysis of data from 31 patients who underwent neck dissection between 1990 and 1997.
- Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to determine recurrence rates.
Main Results:
- The 5-year regional recurrence rate was 31% in patients treated with neck dissection alone.
- The average time to recurrence was 78 months.
- A subset of patients experienced recurrence despite surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Neck dissection alone can be a viable option for select patients with node-positive melanoma.
- Adjuvant radiotherapy should be considered for patients with more advanced neck disease to reduce recurrence risk.