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Expert Lecture

Head and Neck Surgery

Sentinel Node Biopsy for Oral Cavity Cancer: Is It a Go?

Saturday, October 17, 2026
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM PT
Location: Concourse Hall 152

    Lead Presenter(s)

  • David M. Cognetti, MD

    Herbert Kean, MD Professor, Chair
    1) Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical School/Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University
    Philadelphia, PA, United States

    • Co-Presenter(s)

  • Stephen Y. Lai, MD, PhD

    Professor
    University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
    Houston, Texas, United States

This expert series will focus on the role of SNB in the management of oral cavity carcinoma. This will be evidence-based with review of the major multi-institutional trials on the topic. The benefits and limitations will be reviewed, including perceived roadblocks that have slowed adoption in the United States. The experienced instructors will present the newest technology and techniques as well as tips for incorporation into practice. Special emphasis will be given to understanding the workflow and coordination required among multiple teams, including surgery, nuclear medicine, and pathology. Finally, the status of the multi-institutional NRG Oncology randomized trial designed to define the role of SNB in oral cavity cancer will be reviewed with discussion of how surgeons can get involved.

Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the rationale and role of sentinel node biopsy in oral cavity carcinoma
  • Cite the current evidence and understand the role of future study for sentinel node biopsy in oral cavity carcinoma
  • Understand techniques for performing SNB and incorporating it into practice