Review

Prevention of complications in neck dissection

Cyrus J Kerawala^1* and Manolis Heliotos²

• * Corresponding author: Cyrus J Kerawala c.kerawala@boltblue.com

Author Affiliations

¹ Head and Neck Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JJ, UK

² North West London Regional Maxillofacial Unit, Northwick Park Hospital, Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ, UK

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Head & Neck Oncology 2009, 1:35 doi:10.1186/1758-3284-1-35

Published: 12 October 2009

Abstract

Background

The neck dissection has remained a pivotal aspect of head and neck cancer management for over a century. During this time its role has expanded from a purely therapeutic option into an elective setting, in part promoted by efforts to reduce its morbidity.

Objectives

This review will consider the potential complications of neck dissection and on the basis of the available evidence describe both their management and prevention.

Conclusion

Although the neck dissection continues to provide clinicians with a method of addressing cervical disease, its reliability and safety can only be assured if surgeons remain cognisant of the potential complications and aim to minimise such morbidity by appropriate management in the peri-operative period.