Pattern of cervical lymph node metastases in squamous cell carcinoma of the upper oral cavity - How to manage the neck.

Objectives: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) arising from the upper oral cavity is rare compared to other localizations. While cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM) can be predicted to some extent, the probability of occult CLNM remains high. The aim of this study is to determine risk factors affecting clinical decision making.