neck dissection
Surgical procedure to remove lymph nodes from the neck, classified by anatomical levels and structures preserved.
Full Definition
Neck dissection is a surgical procedure designed to remove cervical lymph nodes for treatment or staging of head and neck cancers. The procedure is classified into several types: radical neck dissection (removal of all lymph node levels I-V with sacrifice of accessory nerve, internal jugular vein, and sternocleidomastoid muscle), modified radical neck dissection (preserving one or more non-lymphatic structures), and selective neck dissection (removal of specific lymph node levels based on tumor location). The choice of dissection type depends on the primary tumor site, clinical nodal status, and need to preserve function.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the type of neck dissection and anatomical levels involved.
In Context
- "A modified radical neck dissection preserving the accessory nerve was performed for the N2 disease." — Operative report
- "Selective neck dissection of levels II-IV is indicated for this T2N0 oral tongue carcinoma." — Treatment plan