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[Concept and clinical application of surgical margin principle on head and neck cancers]
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China; Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen 518055, China.
Abstract:
Surgical margin principle is one of the central surgical principles for head and neck cancers. Negative surgical margin is the primary purpose of surgery for head and neck cancers. This paper is based on the current clinical application of surgical margins of head and neck cancers, and it is proposed that surgical margins of head and neck cancers may be classified into three types: surface margin, deep margin, and tissue interface margin in consideration of surgical exposure of tumors. The classification of surgical margins can make the clinical application and the research of surgical margins of head and neck cancers more systematic and clear.
Insights
Achieving negative surgical margins is crucial for head and neck cancers. This study proposes classifying these margins into surface, deep, and tissue interface types for clearer clinical application and research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- The principle of surgical margins is fundamental in treating head and neck cancers.
- Attaining a negative surgical margin is the primary goal of surgical intervention for these malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a novel classification system for surgical margins in head and neck cancer surgery.
- To enhance the systematic understanding and clinical application of surgical margin assessment.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical practices regarding surgical margins for head and neck cancers.
- Development of a three-type classification system based on tumor exposure during surgery: surface margin, deep margin, and tissue interface margin.
Main Results:
- A proposed classification identifies three distinct types of surgical margins: surface, deep, and tissue interface.
- This classification aims to provide a more structured approach to evaluating surgical margins in head and neck cancer.
Conclusions:
- The proposed classification of surgical margins (surface, deep, tissue interface) offers a clearer framework for clinical practice and research in head and neck oncology.
- Implementing this systematic classification can improve the consistency and efficacy of surgical treatment planning and evaluation.
