Fine needle aspiration cytology in maxillofacial surgery--experience in a district general hospital

101 fine needle aspirations of 82 head and neck masses in 72 patients performed in one maxillofacial unit over a 5-year period were studied retrospectively. Satisfactory reports were obtained for 69 masses. Fifty six (81.2%) were confirmed histologically and 13 (18.8%) by clinical follow up of at least 6 months' duration. The sensitivity was 96.7% and specificity 100% with a positive predictive value of 100%. No complications were recorded. Provided the unsatisfactory specimens are correctly recognised this technique provides a useful aid in the management of head and neck masses.