Head & neck
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Management of the node-negative neck in T1 to T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine if elective neck dissection improves outcomes in thick primary tumors since this reflects current practice in most institutions and has not been specifically addressed in the literature. ⋯ Elective neck dissection is associated with a clinically significant survival advantage in thick T1 to T2 oral SCC by reducing the risk of regional failure, and we support its routine application in these patients.