Definition

Neck dissection is surgery to remove the lymph nodes and surrounding tissue in the neck. There are three types:

• Radical neck dissection—removes neck tissue, lymph nodes, muscle between the collarbone and jawbone, the internal jugular vein, and muscles and nerves that control speech, swallowing, and movement in the face, neck, and shoulder
• Modified radical neck dissection—removes lymph nodes, but preserves some nerves, blood vessels, and muscles
• Selective neck dissection—removes less lymph nodes and tissue, and preserves nerves, blood vessels, and muscles

Lymph Nodes Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Reasons for Procedure

This surgery may be done to remove neck and throat cancers or to prevent some cancers of the head from spreading after the cancer has been removed. It may also be done to remove a lymph node for biopsy.

Possible Complications

Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:

• Excess bleeding
• Problems from anesthesia, such as wheezing or sore throat
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Damage to nearby organs or structures

Things that may raise the risk of problems are:

• Smoking
• Chronic diseases, such as diabetes or obesity
• Alcohol use disorder

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you are not getting better or you have: :

• Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the incision
• Numbness or tingling of your fingers or around your mouth
• Problems breathing
• New or unexpected symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.