I had a right side neck dissection in December 06 even though I was T1N0M0. The only explanation I was given was that even though the lymph nodes were clean there was a higher chance of recurrence if the lymph nodes were not removed. Didn't work for me. I had a recurrence in Sept 08.

I like the way you are asking questions. I was a little too accepting of my surgeons recommendations. Another good reason for a CCC.

59 Male 10/06 SCC Stage 1 tongue cancer. 12/06 partial glossectemy right side, removal of lymph nodes. Margins and lymph nodes clean. 09/08 recurrence SCC Stage 1 tongue cancer. 10/08 partial glossectemy right side. Margins clean. Radiation recommended.