After treatment for metastatic lymph nodes, patients should follow-up with their doctors on a regular basis.
Patients should visit their head and neck specialist on a regular schedule (or earlier if they have any concerning symptoms). This allows doctors to monitor the patient for any sign that the cancer has returned. The best timeline for follow-up will be determined by the doctor.
Standard Follow-up Schedule
- For the first year, go every 1–3 months.
- For the second year, go every 2–6 months.
- For the third to fifth year, go every 4–8 months.
- After five years, start going once annually.
Doctors may select a scan to be performed in the first 6 months after treatment. The first scan serves as a “baseline” study for the purpose of comparing future studies. This will depend on the type and location of the cancer. Imaging could range from something as simple as a quick chest X-ray to more extensive tests such as a CT, MRI, or PET scan. If something suspicious comes up, a patient may need a biopsy. Patients should also seek help from a speech therapist as needed for difficulties with speaking and/or swallowing, as well as nutrition and diet.
