Objective: Selective neck dissections (SNDs) can yield outcomes that are oncologically similar to radical dissections but with less morbidity. The rate of metastasis to level IIb is not clear, and its dissection involves cranial nerve XI traction and devascularization, causing much morbidity. Our study examined the prevalence and predictors of cancer within the submuscular recess (SMR).
Methods: All SNDs performed by the authors were prospectively included from July 1, 2002, to March 31, 2006. Level IIb was sent as a distinct specimen.
Results: One hundred fifty-two dissections were performed. Only 12 (7.9%) were node positive in IIb. The SMR contained diseased nodes in 12.2% of N+ necks and 3.0% of N0 necks (p = .04); 23.1% (3 of 13) of laryngeal (1 of 8) and hypopharyngeal (2 of 5) tumours were node positive in IIb versus 6.4% in the oral cavity (p = .07) and 5.3% in oropharyngeal lesions.
Conclusions: This is one of the largest prospective studies examining the role of level IIb dissection. It suggests that level IIb dissection might be unnecessary, especially in an N0 neck.