Q: What are the different types of neck dissection?

There are three main types: Radical Neck Dissection (removes most of the tissue on one side of the neck), Modified Radical Neck Dissection (removes lymph nodes but preserves more nerves, muscles, and blood vessels), and Selective Neck Dissection (removes only the groups of lymph nodes most likely to be affected). The selective type is most common today.

Question 1

What is a neck dissection?

Accepted Answer

A neck dissection is a major surgery to remove lymph nodes from the neck. It is a standard procedure for treating many types of head and neck cancer, as these cancers often spread to the cervical (neck) lymph nodes first.

Question 2

Why is a neck dissection necessary?

Accepted Answer

It is performed to remove cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes or to prevent the cancer from spreading. Removing the lymph nodes helps to control the disease and is a critical part of the overall cancer treatment plan.

Question 3

What are the different types of neck dissection?

Accepted Answer

There are three main types: Radical Neck Dissection (removes most of the tissue on one side of the neck), Modified Radical Neck Dissection (removes lymph nodes but preserves more nerves, muscles, and blood vessels), and Selective Neck Dissection (removes only the groups of lymph nodes most likely to be affected). The selective type is most common today.

Question 4

Who performs this surgery?

Accepted Answer

This complex procedure is performed by a specialist surgeon, typically an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon with expertise in head and neck cancer.

Question 5

What is the recovery like after a neck dissection?

Accepted Answer

Recovery involves a hospital stay, a temporary drainage tube in the neck, and some pain and stiffness. Physical therapy is often required to regain full range of motion in the neck and shoulder.

Question 6

Will I have a large scar?

Accepted Answer

The surgeon will make the incision in a natural skin crease whenever possible to minimize the visibility of the scar. Over time, the scar typically fades and becomes less noticeable.

Question 7

What are the potential side effects or complications?

Accepted Answer

Potential side effects include numbness of the ear and neck skin, shoulder weakness or stiffness, and swelling (lymphedema). These are managed with physical therapy and other supportive care.

Question 8

How does this fit into my overall cancer treatment?

Accepted Answer

A neck dissection is often performed at the same time as the surgery to remove the primary tumor. It may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy, depending on the pathology results from the removed lymph nodes.

Question 9

Will my appearance change after the surgery?

Accepted Answer

There will be some initial swelling and a scar. In a selective or modified dissection, the long-term change to the contour of the neck is usually minimal. Your surgeon will discuss the expected aesthetic outcome with you.

Question 10

How long does the surgery take?

Accepted Answer

The duration varies depending on the extent of the dissection but can range from a few hours to a full day if combined with a major tumor removal and reconstruction.

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