ABSTRACT
Imaging is one of the most important sources of investigation for planning of the treatment in a patient in head and neck cancers. Several important key concepts must be applied and used when considering a cross-sectional imaging in the radiological evaluation of head and neck cancers. Imaging is a key tool that supplements and complements the clinical and physical examination of a patient as a roadmap. However, cross-sectional imaging is not a “stand-alone” procedure. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and computed tomography (CT) scan emphasize the anatomical boundaries and the alterations in anatomy that occur associated with any kind of pathology. Hence, knowledge of head and neck anatomy is very crucial and important for the accurate and actual interpretation of images. CT and MRI scans complement each other. Certain anatomical areas' processes are well studied with one method after the other. There are various applications, advantages and disadvantages of each imaging modality that must be carefully considered before advising the patient. The interpretation of these imaging studies should take into account the patient's medical and clinical history, physical findings, comorbidities and previous medical/dental procedures that may influence the structures visualized in the scan. Comparison films and previous imaging reports are also extremely useful for the radiologist and head and neck oncosurgeon to understand the clinical issues that prompted the scan request. It also helps to find the progression of the disease and response of the treatment given. 18F-fluorodeoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography-CT scan is the most advanced imaging, particularly useful for staging of the patient, restaging of recurrence and radiotherapy planning as an adjuvant as well as for the assessment of response of chemotherapy in head & neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients, due to its superior quality over clinical examination and conventional imaging techniques.
