Prognostic analysis of elective neck dissection in cT3/T4a/T4bN0 maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effect of elective neck dissection (END) on the prognosis of patients with cT3/T4N0 maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinoma (MSSCC).

METHODS

Data were obtained from the SEER database. Patients with cT3/T4a/T4bN0 MSSCC were included in the study and divided into two groups: those who received END treatment and those who did not. Differences between the two groups were assessed using propensity score matching. Cox regression was used to screen patients for independent risk factors. The effect of END on cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) was explored, and subgroup analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 327 patients with cT3/T4N0 MSSCC were enrolled. After propensity score matching (PSM), patients treated with END showed significant improvement in overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) compared with those who did not receive END (P < 0.05). In subgroup analyses, the hazard ratio was 0.729 (95% confidence interval: 0.549-0.967), indicating a favourable prognosis for patients receiving END. Certain subgroups of patients benefited significantly from END. These subgroups included patients older than 65 years, Caucasian, male, not receiving radiotherapy, stage T3, grade II and MSSCC with a tumour size of 3-5 cm.

CONCLUSION

END improves survival time and survival outcomes in patients with cT3/T4a/T4bN0 MSSCC, especially in cT3 patients.