Exploring the Incidence of Submandibular Gland Involvement in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Level I Neck Dissection

Traditionally, the excision of submandibular glands has been a standard procedure during neck dissection. The excision of submandibular glands can decrease the patient's quality of life. However, recent investigations have suggested the absence of lymphoid tissue and a low susceptibility to metastasis in these glands, thereby negating the imperative for their removal.

In the current investigation, a retrospective analysis of medical records and imaging data about patients afflicted with head and neck cancer and subjected to Level I neck dissection was undertaken. This study aimed to assess the involvement and metastatic potential of submandibular glands and also the relationship between the grade of tumor and involvement of lymph nodes.

The findings revealed a lack of involvement of submandibular glands, thereby substantiating the rationale for preserving these glands during neck dissection. Preserving these glands can provide a better quality of life for patients. The study found no significant correlation between tumor grade and lymph node involvement.

Involvement of submandibular glands in head and neck cancers is rare and preserving these glands can be considered during surgery.