Professional
Technical
IVT
radical neck dissection
Surgical removal of all lymph node groups in the neck along with surrounding structures including muscle and nerve.
Full Definition
Radical neck dissection is the most extensive form of neck surgery for head and neck cancer, involving removal of all five lymph node levels (I-V) plus the sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein, and spinal accessory nerve. This procedure has largely been replaced by modified radical neck dissections that preserve important structures when oncologically safe. The term requires careful distinction from selective and modified radical neck dissections in surgical documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from modified radical and selective neck dissections in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent radical neck dissection with sacrifice of the spinal accessory nerve." — operative report
- "Historical use of radical neck dissection resulted in significant functional morbidity." — surgical review article
Also known as
RND
Contrasted with
selective neck dissection
Don't confuse with
modified radical neck dissection
selective neck dissection