Evaluation of Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A National Survey

A review of the recent literature of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery reveals minimal guidance as to the use of laboratory and radiographic studies in the initial evaluation and subsequent follow-up of patients with head and neck cancer. A national survey was prepared and was sent to 105 otolaryngology-head and neck surgery teaching departments with 53 institutions responding. This survey shows that a baseline of laboratory and radiographic studies are routinely ordered. Follow-up is monthly the first year and every other month the second year. Specialized laboratory tests and radiographic studies are ordered on a case-by-case basis and based on cost effectiveness, research orientation, available resources, and, most importantly, the patient's needs.