Objectives: The objective of this study is to determine the association between primary tumour (oscc) and regional nodal metastasis in clinically negative neck.

Materials and methods: The data presented in this cross sectional study is based on 61 consecutive oscc cases with clinically negative necks presenting in the omf surgical clinics. Elective neck dissection is performed in all patients presenting with oral squamous cell carcinoma. All histopathology reports were observed for regional nodal metastasis, depth of invasion, site and size of primary tumour amongst other features.

Results: Mean age of the sample was 47.1 ± 12.1. In 34% cases nodal involvement was positive. Nodal involvement was not associated with tumour size and depth with p -value > 0.05.

Conclusion: Neck dissection is a necessary tool in surgical planning and management of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Key words: oral cancer; cancer; regional nodal metastasis; neck management