The new imaging-based classification for describing the location of lymph nodes in the neck with particular regard to cervical lymph nodes in relation to cancer of the larynx.

For over five decades, the principle landmarks used in cervical nodal classification were clinical and defined either by palpation or found at the operative table. However during the past two decades, sectional imaging has consistently improved its quality and resolution and it has been shown that imaging can identify deep structures and adenopathy not amenable to palpation. Such disease can alter planned operative or radiation fields. In the April 1999 issue of the Archives of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, for the first time an imaging-based classification was published that gave precise anatomic landmarks for use in classifying metastatic cervical adenopathy. This classification was developed in consultation with head and neck surgeons so that the nodal levels classified by this imaging-based system would correspond closely with the nodal levels determined by utilizing the most commonly employed clinically-based classifications. This article describes this imaging-based classification and demonstrates its use with axial diagrams. Copyright 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel