TBBM Sampling Is Associated With Worse Outcomes in Early Stage OCSCC

Background: The 2 main methods of margin assessment following cancer resection are tumor bed-based margin (TBBM) sampling and specimen-based margin (SBM) sampling. The superiority of either method has not been definitely proven. Objective: To compare local recurrence rates and use of adjuvant treatment between TBBM and SBM after resection of early stage oral cavity squamous cell cancer (OCSCC). Design: Retrospective cohort study. Methods: Patients with cT1-2N0 OCSCCs undergoing surgical resection at 4 academic medical centers from 2000 to 2019 were included. Patients required at least 2 years of follow-up. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify associations with local recurrence and receipt of adjuvant radiation. Results: 646 patients met inclusion criteria. No significant differences in mean closest margin distance were noted between SBM and TBBM techniques (3.52 vs 3.40 mm; P =0.43). TBBM technique had a higher rate of positive margins on fin more...